Puntos de Interés
Municipality
Navapalos
Navapalos is an ancient hamlet situated on the left bank of the Duero River, within the municipality of El Burgo de Osma in Soria, approximately 12 km away.
The area's growing and alarming depopulation, coupled with the low economic activity, is the primary reason for Navapalos' current depopulation.
The name of this area is derived from the terms "nava", meaning low, flat land, and "palos", which refers to a passageway.
Its origins are unknown, but it was probably linked to the development of the Community of the Villa y Tierra de Osma, founded in 912.
Historical references indicate that Navapalos was closely linked to the history of the city of Osma. In 1174, during the reign of Alfonso VIII, the Church of Osma was granted the privilege of exploiting and cultivating these lands. The privileges in question afforded the bishop of Osma jurisdiction over several villages, including Navapalos.
In the 14th century, the Comunidad de la Villa y Tierra de Osma was divided between the bishop's lands and nine other villages, including Navapalos.
The village and rural nucleus were depopulated during the 1960s. The primary factors contributing to this situation are a lack of essential services, a lack of attention from the provincial government, and poor farming practices. In 1985, the Navapalos Foundation and the NGO Inter-Acción (both presided over by the German architect Erhard Rohmer) initiated the rehabilitation and reconstruction of this depopulated area with the objective of repopulating Navapalos. However, the project is currently on hold.
The hamlet boasts several notable monuments, including underground cellars used for storing and preserving wine. These are located near the town centre and have been carved into the earth. Additionally, the site features a watchtower constructed of masonry, which serves as a tangible reminder of the historical battles that occurred in the region. This is an example of military architecture of Islamic origin, which was declared an Asset of Cultural Interest in 1983.
Furthermore, the town centre provides an excellent example of the "architecture of the earth.” The property comprises several buildings, including a wine press constructed in 1817 from adobe and rammed earth.