Molinaseca and the Camino de Santiago
Molinaseca and the French Way of the Camino de Santiago
The beautiful municipality of Molinaseca is located in the Comarca of El Bierzo, in the province of León, surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes filled with chestnut, holm oak, and poplar trees.
Its connection with the Camino de Santiago was instrumental in accelerating its economic and urban development.
Molinaseca, a must-stop on the French Way, popularly known as Molina, offers visitors all its beauty and tranquility, surprising them with the quantity and quality of the art found there.
Majestically overlooking the town, pilgrims encounter the Santuario de las Angustias, a Baroque building from the late 17th century, which marks the entrance to this charming village. Crossing the Meruelo River via the Romanesque bridge (known as the Pilgrim’s Bridge), a stone bridge with seven arched spans—three of which, featuring semicircular arches, belong to an older bridge and are partially buried—leads to the splendid Calle Real. This main artery of the village, lined with noble houses and palaces adorned with their coats of arms, showcases a town rich in history. After crossing the bridge and walking along Calle Real, pilgrims arrive at the Church of San Nicolás de Bari. Of medieval origin, it stands atop a hill, majestically and regally dominating the village.
Other symbols, such as El Crucero del Santo Cristo, a beautiful Jacobean motif at the end of Calle Real, and the Pilgrim Monument, reflect the important bond that the town of Molinaseca maintains with the Jacobean route.
Let’s not forget its festivals, held in honor of the Virgen de las Angustias, known as “La Preciosa,” and San Roque. One notable celebration is the Water Battle Festival, taking place on Calle Real, where locals and visitors engage in a unique battle, throwing buckets of water at each other.
As for its gastronomy, don’t miss the opportunity to taste the excellent wines protected by the Bierzo Denomination of Origin and its rich cuisine, including botillo, cecina, androlla, or roasted peppers. Additionally, enjoy its delicious and varied desserts at restaurants and wineries open to the public.
Would you like to book your Camino de Santiago?