Welcome to a journey through the cultural heart of the Alto Tajo. This territory, known for its breathtaking natural beauty, also hides a rich historical and ethnographic heritage that will take you back through the centuries. From the ancient celtiberian forts to the picturesque mountain villagesthrough museums, interpretation centres y archaeological sitesThe Alto Tajo is an open book of history and tradition waiting to be discovered. Get ready for a cultural adventure that will awaken all your senses and connect you with the roots of this ancient land.
![Visits and Heritage 1 trinchras villar](https://alto-tajo.com/wp-content/uploads/trinchras-villar.jpg)
CELTIBERIA
Imagine a time when proud warriors and skilled craftsmen populated these lands. The Celtiberians, a fusion of Celtic and Iberian culturesThey left an indelible mark on the Upper Tagus. Their castrosThe fortresses on the heights still defy the passage of time, offering us a window into a heroic and mysterious past.
VISITABLE FORTS
- El CeremeñoA journey to the heart of Celtiberian culture. This castro, exceptionally well preserved, will allow you to walk through the same streets that our ancestors walked more than 2,000 years ago.
- Peña MoñuzPerched atop a hill, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Imagine the Celtiberian sentries watching the horizon from this strategic point.
- CastilgriegosA fascinating example of Celtiberian defensive architecture. Its walls and structures will take you back to a time of conflict and alliances between tribes.
INTERPRETATION CENTRES
The Upper Tagus Interpretation Centres are more than just museums. They are gateways to knowledgewhere information is presented in an interactive, entertaining and accessible way for all audiences. Through exhibitions, audiovisuals, workshops and guided activitiesYou will be able to delve into the essence of the Upper Tagus and discover its hidden treasures.
The Upper Tagus has a network of four interpretation centreseach with its own theme and focus:
- Dehesa de Corduente Visitor Centre: The park's reference centre, located in a privileged natural environment. It offers an overview of the Upper Tagus, from its geology and flora to its fauna and traditions.
- Tagus River Interpretation Centre in Zaorejas: A tribute to the Tagus River, a source of life and the driving force behind the region's development. You will learn about its course, its ecosystems and its importance for mankind.
- Interpretation Centre of the Traditional Livestock Farming of the Upper Tagus in Checa: A tribute to livestock farming, an ancestral activity that has shaped the landscape and culture of the Upper Tagus. You will discover the traditional shepherding techniques, the life of the shepherds and the fundamental role that livestock farming plays in the balance of the ecosystem.
- Sequero de Orea Interpretation Centre: A journey into the past in the Sequero de Orea, an old pineapple drying shed used to reforest the forests of this area. It will allow you to learn about the traditional techniques of the uses of wood and how the hooks managed this precious resource.
ETHNOGRAPHIC HERITAGE: LIFE IN THE SIERRA
The Upper Tagus not only captivates you with its dreamlike landscapes and rich history, but also invites you on a journey back in time through its ethnographic heritage. Enter a world of ancestral traditions, ancient crafts and unique architectural elements that will transport you to the very essence of this magical land.
GUIDED TOURS
Go deep into the unspoilt nature with expert guides. Discover the magic of these forests in safety - choose a guide for your hiking experience now!
VILLAGES
A stop at the Alto Tajo should always be a visit to their enchanting villagesThese little gems hidden among mountains and valleys will transport you to the essence of rural Spain. Each one of them, with its idiosyncrasy, architecture and peculiaritieswill offer you an authentic and unforgettable experience.
Stroll through its cobbled streets and admire its stone houses, adorned with flowery balconies and noble coats of arms. Immerse yourself in its calm and cosy atmosphere.where time seems to have stood still. Conversation with its peopleThey are friendly and hospitable, always ready to share their traditions and customs with you.
Participate in their festivals and traditionsfull of colour and joy. Let yourself be carried away by the rhythm of traditional music and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Discover local craftsmanshipmade with ancestral techniques and noble materials.
Some of the villages not to be missed:
![Visits and Heritage 12 flickr ticker](https://alto-tajo.com/wp-content/uploads/chequilla-flickr.jpg)
![Visits and Heritage 13 molina flickr](https://alto-tajo.com/wp-content/uploads/molina-flickr.jpg)
MUSEUMS: GUARDIANS OF MEMORY
The Upper Tagus not only offers you breathtaking landscapes and a rich ethnographic heritage, but also invites you to a a journey through history and culture in their museums. Discover the fascinating history of this region, from its origins to the present day, through unique collections and interactive exhibitions.
A journey through the history of the Upper Tagus:
- Museum of Molina de Aragón: Located in the old convent of San FranciscoThis museum houses an extensive collection of pieces from prehistoric times to the present day. You can admire archaeological remains, works of art, traditional furniture and much more.
SMALL LOCAL MUSEUMS
- Peñalén Mining Museum
- Paleontological Museum "El Mirón" Maranchón
- Jorge Bande Ethnographic Museum
- Interpretation Centre of the Tower of Aragon
- Hombrados Open Museum
Inland salt pans. The salty treasure of the Upper Tagus
In the interior of the Upper Tagus, a dreamlike landscape sculpted by the Tagus River and its tributaries, a historical and natural treasure is hidden: the Salinas. These former salt works, some of which can be visited, take us back to a time of economic and cultural splendour and offer a fascinating journey through industrial heritage and tradition.
Las Salinas de Saelices de la Sal: A journey into the past
Among the salt pans that can be visited in the Upper Tagus, the following stand out Salt mines of Saelices de la Sal. Declared Bien de Interés CulturalThese salt mines invite you to visit their threshing floors, wells and factories, where you will learn about the methods of salt extraction and its importance for the local economy. The guided toursavailable every weekend, will immerse you in the history of this unique enclave and will allow you to discover the secrets of the "fleur de sel" (flower of salt)a high quality product with a curious process.