World heritage sites Pedraza, a Journey into the Medieval Soul of Castile
History, gastronomy and light in one of Spain’s most beautiful villages
It is, in fact, an architectural, historical and cultural gem nestled in the heart of Castile. Located in the province of Segovia, this walled town has managed to preserve its essence over the centuries, becoming a true living testimony to medieval splendour. Its unique beauty and rich heritage led to its designation as a Historic Site in 1951 and, later, its inclusion as a Site of Cultural Interest (BIC as its written in Spanish). Today, Pedraza is much more than a tourist destination: it is a journey through time, a sensory experience and an admirable example of conservation and authenticity.
A Village with Centuries of History
A glimpse into the past among walls, castles and living legends
The history of Pedraza reaches much further back than one might think at first sight. Although its current appearance transports us directly to the Middle Ages, the earliest traces of settlement in this enclave may date to pre-Roman times, evidence of the strategic importance since ancient times. Its privileged location, atop a rocky promontory and surrounded by a sturdy medieval wall, favoured its development as a commercial, defensive and stately centre from the 11th century onwards.
During the Middle Ages and the Modern Age, Pedraza was home to important noble families, including the Fernández de Velasco family, Constables of Castile, who commissioned the construction of the impressive Pedraza Castle. This fortress, which still stands majestically over the landscape, was restored in the 20th century by the painter Ignacio Zuloaga, who converted part of its interior into a museum and cultural space. In the inside, visitors can still explore the original dungeons, steeped in history and legends that speak of times of power, repression and resistance. Another point of special interest is the old medieval prison, located in the emblematic Puerta de la Villa. Inside, one may witness first-hand what life—and punishment—was like in Pedraza centuries ago, with its harsh conditions and peculiar system of justice.
The heart of the town beats strongly in the Plaza Mayor, one of the most unique squares in Castile due to its irregular layout and porticoed surroundings. Surrounded by emblazoned houses, stone arcades and buildings steeped in history, such as the Church of San Juan, this square has witnessed all kinds of events: from fairs and markets to bullfights and popular celebrations. It is not surprising that it has also served as the setting for numerous film and television shoots seeking an authentic atmosphere without the need for artifice.
Pedraza as a Site of Cultural Interest
Exemplary conservation and medieval soul in a town that has stood the test of time
The declaration of Pedraza as a Site of Cultural Interest is not only a symbolic recognition, but also a guarantee of protection for one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Spain. Thanks to this distinction, not only has the original layout of the village been kept intact, but also its authentic atmosphere. In Pedraza, no overhead power lines scar the sky, nor do modern streetlamps disrupt its ambience. The lighting, carefully designed, is soft and respectful of the environment, creating a warm and evocative atmosphere, especially at dusk.
Renovations and restorations carried out on its historic houses and buildings are subject to strict controls, ensuring that each intervention contributes to preserving the authenticity of the place. Far from becoming an open-air museum, Pedraza is a living village that has managed to adapt to modern times without renouncing its roots. This balanced blend of tradition and functionality makes Pedraza an admirable example of sustainable rural and cultural tourism development.
Pedraza also wins hearts through its cuisine, with roast suckling lamb as its star dish.
Dining in Pedraza is not just a pleasure: it is a complete experience that connects you with the land, tradition and the senses.
Gastronomy: Castilian Flavour at Its Finest
The art of good eating in a place steeped in history
Beyond its cobbled streets and monumental heritage, Pedraza also captivates visitors through its cuisine. Local gastronomy is one of the town’s great attractions, and it is no exaggeration to say that many visitors come exclusively to sit down at the table and savour its unmistakable Castilian flavour. The star dish is undoubtedly roast suckling lamb. Prepared in the traditional way in a wood-fired oven, with nothing more than salt and patience, this delicacy represents the essence of Segovian cuisine: simple, hearty and delicious.
The quality of its cuisine has crossed borders: in 2024, the British newspaper The Times included El Soportal at the top of its list of the 28 best places to eat in the Mediterranean, highlighting its roast suckling lamb and the medieval charm of its surroundings. This international recognition underlines the gastronomic excellence of Pedraza.
Other renowned restaurants include El Corral de Joaquina and Casa Taberna, the latter run by well-known chef and entrepreneur Samantha Vallejo-Nágera, a regular face on programmes such as MasterChef. At these establishments, you can enjoy not only lamb, but also other typical dishes such as judiones (large white beans), Castilian garlic soup, roast suckling pig and local cured meats. And for those with a sweet tooth, there is no shortage of traditional treats such as soplillos (almond biscuits) or artisan mantecados (shortbread), ideal for rounding off a memorable meal.
All this is accompanied by excellent wines from the Ribera del Duero, which pair perfectly with meat dishes, or even a glass of the exclusive Segovian whisky, produced nearby. Dining in Pedraza is not just a pleasure: it is a complete experience that connects you with the land, tradition and your senses.
The Candlelight night: Light, Music and Emotion
A magical summer night where music and candlelight envelop Pedraza
Charming as Pedraza is throughout the year, it reaches an almost magical dimension on the first two Saturdays of July, thanks to one of its most emblematic events: La Noche de las Velas (the Candlelight Night). On these special dates, the entire town switches off its electric lighting and transforms into a dreamlike setting, illuminated solely by thousands of candles adorning every corner: streets, balconies, squares, windows and stairways glow with warm, flickering light.
The visual effect is simply breathtaking, but the experience goes far beyond aesthetics. Live music, carefully selected for the occasion, becomes the soundtrack of a night in which time seems to stand still. Classical, instrumental or choral, each note merges with the intimate, enveloping atmosphere of the town. Strolling through Pedraza during the Candlelight Night is a unique experience—one that moves, astonishes and remains in the memory of all who live it.
This event has gained great popularity both nationally and internationally, and has been key to reinforcing Pedraza’s image as a cultural destination of excellence. Its exemplary organisation, respect for the environment and the active participation of its inhabitants make Candlelight Night much more than a spectacle: it is a declaration of love for the town, its history and the beauty of the ephemeral.
Pedraza
History, gastronomy and light in one of Spain’s most beautiful villages
Culture 
Gastronomy