This beautiful region of Teruel is known as “the Spanish Tuscany”

The Matarraña region in Teruel , nicknamed ” the Spanish Tuscany “, has landscapes reminiscent of the famous Italian region.

This destination, essential on the map of tourism in Teruel , offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy 18 picturesque villages surrounded by extensive olive groves, vineyards and stunning natural landscapes.

Despite the mixed opinions among residents about this nickname, it cannot be denied that the Matarraña region offers a heritage and atmosphere that attracts visitors throughout the year. Without a doubt, it is a must-see for tourism in Teruel.

The most beautiful villages in Matarraña, the Spanish Tuscany

The Spanish Tuscany in Teruel  offers a landscape that enchants and surprises its visitors due to its similarity to the hills and vineyards of this popular Italian region.

This region, which takes its name from the river that runs through it, is made up of medieval villages of unparalleled beauty, fortresses and incredible views and much more. Are you going to miss them?

Valderrobres

Valderrobres , the regional capital of Matarraña , is a town that stands out for its rich architectural heritage and its deep history. Especially for its spectacular Plaza de España, guarded by historic buildings such as the Fonda de la Plaza and the 16th century Town Hall.

The heart of Valderrobres beats in its urban centre, which is divided between the old town north of the Matarraña River and the suburb of the bridge, where most of the population lives. The town began to be fortified in the 12th century, something that is evident in the imposing 14th century stone bridge that crosses the river and connects both parts of the town.

The Valderrobres Castle and the Church of Santa María La Mayor are two architectural gems that rise in the upper part of the town. Both were commissioned by the former Archbishop of Zaragoza and dominate the valley, offering a vision of the ecclesiastical and feudal power of yesteryear… and spectacular views.

The cobbled streets and steps add an additional charm to Valderrobres , making this town one of the most beautiful and preserved in the Matarraña region .

Beceite

Beceite  is the ideal destination to enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the river that gives its name to the region. Surrounded by olive groves and with an undeniable rustic charm, Beceite is the starting point to explore the spectacular El Parrissal route .

This 11-kilometre trail follows the course of the Matarraña River and enters the impressive Els Ports massif , where the rock walls reach heights of up to 60 metres.

Along the route, visitors can enjoy numerous natural pools and ponds, created by the erosion of water on the limestone rock, offering refreshing stops and impressive views. For more experienced hikers, the excursion to the Masmut Rocks is an unmissable adventure.

This imposing limestone formation rises gradually and offers spectacular views, culminating in a return route that winds through ancient farmhouses, lush vegetation and memorable corners that capture the essence of this unique region.

Beceite is not only a place of natural beauty, it is also a perfect place if you are looking for peace and connection with nature in one of the most enchanting places in Spanish Tuscany.

Calaceite

Calaceite is considered the cultural capital of the Matarraña region  . Declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1974, Calaceite is recognised as one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, famous for its harmonious architecture that combines the golden tone of the ashlar stone with the brown colour of the roofs.

A tour of Calaceite should include visits to Calle Mayor, Plaza de España, and Calle Maella . Points of interest include the old prison, the church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, the 17th-century Town Hall, and the museum of archaeologist Juan Cabré. Also, just 2 km from the town, the Iberian village of San Antonio offers a window into the past with its streets and archaeological ruins from the 3rd century BC, as well as spectacular views of the Puertos de Beceite .

For hiking and history enthusiasts, the “Matarraña Burial Mounds Route” near Calaceite is fascinating. This route passes through the old Horse Trail and leads to the Pedrafita burial mounds, which offer a unique insight into Iron Age burial practices .

The Fresneda

La Fresneda , although less known than other towns in the Matarraña region , stands out for being one of the most picturesque in the area and promises a pleasant surprise to its visitors.

Its old town, declared a Historic-Artistic Site, bears witness to a history that dates back to the Order of Calatrava. Its streets are home to impressive palatial houses from the 17th and 18th centuries , such as La Casa de la Encomienda and the Renaissance Consistory , which still preserves its old prison.

In addition, La Fresneda is home to the remains of a Muslim castle and notable religious buildings, including the Convent , the Capilla del Pilar and the Gothic Church of Santa María la Mayor . A highlight of a visit to La Fresneda is an ascending walk from the Plaza Mayor to the Ermita de Santa Bárbara.

Situated on the top of a hill, next to the old castle, the hermitage offers panoramic views of the village and the Valley of Silence, crossed by the Matarraña River . Although the climb includes numerous stairs, the impressive views, especially at sunset, make it worth the effort.

Ráfales

Rafales , located in the Matarraña region , is another architectural and natural gem of this region often compared to Italian Tuscany. Its historic centre, declared a Historic-Artistic Site , captures the essence of a medieval past with its narrow cobbled streets, stone houses built in the Mudejar style and notable religious buildings, including the church of the Assumption of Our Lady , the convent of San Francisco and the hermitage of San Roque .

In addition to its architectural wealth, Rafales is proud of its impressive natural surroundings. Surrounded by dense forests of pine, oak and cork trees and crossed by rivers and streams, the town offers an exceptional landscape that invites exploration and the enjoyment of outdoor activities.

The combination of its cultural heritage and its lush natural surroundings make Rafales an essential destination for those looking to discover the lesser-known charms of Spanish Tuscany.