Information about Calzadilla de la Cueza
Calzadilla de la Cueza is a small town in the province of Palencia that has just over 50 inhabitants, a population density that is increased considerably with the passage of pilgrims who give life to the village.
With its solitary tower, a beacon for pilgrims, the town is named after a road that is still preserved, the so-called Via Aquitania, well before the Camino de Santiago but which served to direct the pilgrims to the tomb of the Apostle.
What to see and do in Calzadilla de la Cueza
Church of San Martín
Of medieval origin in Calzadilla de la Cueza, the temple underwent various modifications over the following centuries, until it took on its present appearance. It is a construction of mud and brick, with a Latin cross plan, three naves – the central one being higher and wider – a marked transept, covered with a dome and a belfry. The entrance doorway is a simple semicircular arch.
Monastery of Santa María de las Tiendas
As you move away from the temple you can visit “Las Tiendas”. Here you will find the ruins of the monastery of Santa María de las Tiendas and its old hospital near Calzadilla de la Cueza, which already existed in the 12th century. It is worth noting that this place was a large abbey and hospice of the Order of St. James where hundreds of pilgrims were cared for. As many of its remains were used to build the church, you will only see the site and some remains of its demolition.
Roman road Alquitana
In the surroundings of Calzadilla de la Cueza there are still remains of the paved Roman Aquitanian Way or La Parva, for the locals. In ancient times, pilgrims used to walk along this path from the Abbey of Benevívere to the old Hospital.
