Puntos de Interés
Municipality
Pereruela
After the city of Zamora, the River Duero enters the historic region of Sayago through the municipality of Pereruela. The town of the same name, also known as Pereruela de Sayago, is situated near the riverbed, which was carved out of the granite hill by the Duero river. It is in the vicinity of one of its tributaries, the Regato de los Pozarones.
Archaeological evidence indicates that the area has been inhabited since the Bronze Age. However, the settlement of Pereruela was not established until the 12th century, following the repopulation processes that occurred during the Christian conquest.
Over time, the village gained a certain degree of notoriety due to the pottery produced by its potters, who utilised the white kaolin and red clay to mould casseroles, particularly designed for the preparation of roasts. The activity in question became so prevalent that it gave rise to significant conflict between local artisans, necessitating the implementation of regulations to prevent the unsustainable exploitation of red clay on specific lands and thus the resolution of neighbourhood disputes. For centuries, numerous potters and potters' workshops sold and worked the clay until, in the mid-18th century, the rights to the clay were transferred entirely to the Docampo family, who exercised control over most municipal lands and properties. At present, numerous family-run potteries are engaged in the endeavour of perpetuating this time-honoured tradition. These enterprises continue to produce and sell wood-fired ovens and a plethora of traditional cooking vessels.
Pereruela boasts an extensive cultural heritage, with the Church of Santa Eufemia and the bridges constructed along the routes of its two Roman roads, the Fermoselle and Miranda, representing its most notable historical sites. The parish church has undergone a multitude of alterations over the centuries, resulting in a distinctive architectural profile. This has resulted in the coexistence of disparate architectural styles within the same edifice. For instance, the Romanesque style is evident on the north wall, while the Gothic style is manifest in the apse and the main arches. Renaissance and neoclassical elements can be observed. The interior of the church contains several notable features, including the altarpiece of San Antón, which dates from the 16th century, and the impressive 18th-century high altarpiece dedicated to Santa Eufemia. Near to the church are a series of traditional houses, mills and ovens, as well as the Barro Interpretation Centre, which collectively represent the heterogeneous architectural heritage of Pereruela.
In commemoration of Santa Eufemia, the patron saint, festivities are held on 16 September, which includes street parties and bull running. Although the Virgen del Rosario is not the patron saint of the place, the most eagerly awaited fiesta is that of the Virgen del Rosario, as it is celebrated in three acts throughout the year. The inaugural celebration, designated Las Candelas, is scheduled to occur on 2 February. During this event, young stewards bear the Virgin in procession and present offerings. The second festival is the Ascension, a family festival during which rice pudding is served. The cycle is ended on the second Sunday in October with the Offertory. During this ceremony, the people offer roscas and other items for auction. This is followed by the "baile del ramo" and the "carrera de la rosca".