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 Chinchon |
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Madrid boasts Chinchón for it displays one of the most attractive and picturesque environments in Spain .
As you enter the small town, you will be welcomed with impressive landscapes that range from earthy colors of grays, greens and browns.
The first things you will see in Chinchón are the beautifully clustered hanging houses nestled on hilltops. At the south of the town, you could glimpse the ruins of a 14 th century castle.
The town is well known for its brewed, anise-flavored liquor, which is called anis, as well as its cultivation of different varieties of garlic sold throughout Spain .
If you wish to travel without a guided route, you may ask assistance at the Plaza San Antonio or contact the office via phone at 91 891 04 27.
CHINCHON FACTS
* Location = 51 km Southeast of Madrid
* Travel Time = 45 minutes
* Nearest train station = Tren de la Fresca or Cercanias Line
Chinchón was occupied by the Romans, Iberians and Visigoths before the Arabs even heard of this town.
During the reign of Ferdinand and Isabel, the town played an important role. After this era, Chinchón became known while dragging the region along with its popularity.
When the Counts of Chinchón were surrounded with intellectuals and artists, the town s culture and politics progressed. Convents, churches and significant buildings were erected near the castle one by one.
Today, these amazing structures, which are well preserved, are still part of the town. The following sites are those you should definitely check out:
Plaza Mayor - Main Square
Considered as Madrid s most distinctive square, it was originally a natural boardwalk used for fairs of cattle. As time passed, the Plaza Mayor became the town s integral site for all events that went on.
Today, Chinchón Main Square can be seen with green paint that creates a more intense contrast of the landscape s earthy colors.
During the early 16 th century, the first bullfight was held in the Plaza Mayor in honor of Phillip the handsome one. Since then, it became an annual tradition, been passed down over the years, and continues to exist to this day.
In addition to the exhilarating bullfights, the Main Square was also a site for popular dances, theatrical productions, concerts, and once was a site for public executions.
Throughout the Plaza Mayor are taverns, cafés, stores and restaurants where locals and tourists could enjoy the typical products of Chinchón cuisine.
The Castle of Chinchón
Stretching to the town s outskirts, while standing tall and viewing the majestic scenery of Chinchón, this castle is one of the most visited palaces in Madrid .
The wall of the castle, which was once strategically located for the town s protection, no longer exists. Although the foundations of the Chinchón s Castle have been constructed several centuries ago, it only became a significant site when Chinchón was granted its seigniorial status.
Today, the castle still stands, though without its majestic hornage tower, which was destroyed by the Napoleonic troops. However, you can still see the traces of the once splendid tower while appreciating its historical value.
Majestic Houses
The seigniorial past of Chinchón is represented by several religious structures, majestic houses and nobiliary architecture. Some examples of these breathtaking historical structures are the Church of Assumption , the Lope de Vega Theater and the Casa de la Cadena the house with the chain.
The Assumption Church began its construction sometime around 1534. However, it was only completed in 1626. Located in the surrounding area of the Plaza Mayor , it is the best example of a Plateresque-styled architecture. The church was made mostly of stone ashlars. The highlight of the Church of Assumption is the canvas on the altarpiece created by Goya.
The Lope de Vega Theater could be seen near the church. This site has been the home to numerous important plays. Originally, this theater was located at the Palace of the Counts of Chinchón. During that time, Lope de Vega put on his comedy acts there. It was only in 1891 when the theater was relocated to its present spot.
The Casa de la Cadena , a historical monument, is one of the finest samples of nobiliary architecture. It was once the residence of Phillip V during the Succession War.
The Convent of Poor Clare Nuns and the Augustinian Monastery
The foundation of the Augustinian Monastery dates back from the 15 th century. The structure and design represent the characteristics of the Chinchón architecture at that time. Today, it is home to the Parador Nacional or the Chinchón National Hotel.
The Convent of Poor Clare Nuns, similar to the Augustinian Monastery, plays an integral part of Chinchón s landscapes. Included in the monastery is a convent church. In this convent, guests can experience a more tranquil environment.
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