Explore the Andalusian heritage route in Castilla-La Mancha and immerse yourself in the beauty and history of its Islamic legacy. Discover centuries of cultural and architectural influence that enriched the art and culture of the region.

From north to south and east to west, Castilla-La Mancha reveals medinas, castles, fortresses, walls, palaces, mosques, public baths, fountains, cisterns, landscapes... A journey through time and space to see, feel, smell, taste and hear the richness of a unique cultural legacy. Al-Andalus shaped the current map of Castilla-La Mancha, and the itineraries of these Routes of al-Andalus allow us to enjoy a beautiful, rich and surprising tangible and intangible heritage.

Itinerary X for the Ways of al-Ándalus route, salt flats between Atienza and Molina de Aragón, is one of the ten journeys crossing the five provinces in the region and represents a fascinating journey through the north-east of the ancient al-Andalus Central March, a territory now the north of the modern-day Guadalajara province and the south of Soria. This area was key during the al-Andalus period because of its strategic location as a crossroads, its proximity to the border and the abundance of a vital resource: salt, historically known as white gold.

The footprint of the historic salt flats

Due to the unique physical characteristics of the terrain, numerous historic salt flats sprung up in this region, where the Islamic culture successfully applied advanced water management techniques and hydraulic systems. These infrastructures were not only essential in their time, but have left a visible footprint on the landscape that directly connects the al-Andalus past with the present.

Medinas and fortifications

One of the main regional centres was Medinaceli, which in the 10th century became the capital of the Central March by decision of the Umayyads of Córdoba themselves. This reflects the strategic and economic importance of the area, which underwent remarkable urban and defensive development, especially during the Caliphate period.

The itinerary guides visitors along the ancient roads that connected Atienza and Molina de Aragón, two of the most important medinas in the region. Along the valleys created by the Tagus system rivers -such as the Tajuña, Henares and Salado rivers-, travellers can marvel at the spectacular salt landscapes, visit historic salt mines such as in Imón, and explore watchtowers, fortresses and ancient al-Andalus settlements. Some of these settlements, such as Los Casares, were left uninhabited after the Middle Ages, while others such as Atienza, Sigüenza or Molina de Aragón witnessed a rich historical evolution with important elements inherited from the Islamic world.