Puntos de Interés
Infrastructure
Arcillo
The municipality of Pereruela is situated within the interior of the municipality, and the village of Arcillo is a peaceful community located within it. According to different authors, the name of this enclave may come either from an archaism of the Castilian arquillo (small stone arch), or from the clay that made this region of Zamora famous through the pottery industry. Nevertheless, the current population is predominantly engaged in agricultural and livestock farming activities. Nevertheless, the expansion of rural tourism has led to a notable increase in the number of businesses in the service sector that have experienced significant growth in recent years.
The Arcillo estate is situated in a Mediterranean-type environment, with a few kilometres separating it from the Duero River. The estate is in a unique natural setting. The western flank of Arcillo is protected by a granite rocky slope, which acts as a barrier against the winds that blow from this side. To the east of the village, the river Bárate or Arcillo serves as a natural boundary until its confluence with the northward-flowing Duero river. Furthermore, the area is characterised by the presence of holm oaks (Quercus ilex), which are particularly abundant and have been present in the area for centuries. These trees extend their reach to the very confines of the village, surrounding Arcillo with a perennial green all year round.
The most characteristic features of this enclave are, without a doubt, its buildings and intricate streets. Arcillo’s corrals, walls and dwellings were built with the materials provided by the mountain itself, giving rise to stone structures with sturdy wooden gates that have survived despite so much time having passed- The most striking building in the area is the church dedicated to San Antonio de Padua. This simple church might go unnoticed if it were not for the belfry that rises above the nave and stands out from the rest of the roofs. This stone mural contains two openings for the bells and is surmounted by a Christian cross supported by a gently sloping triangular pinnacle.
With the advent of the holiday season, Arcillo adorns itself with festive decorations in honour of Santa Justa and Santa Rufina, celebrated on 19 July. Later, on 16 September, the festival of Santa Eufemia is held in the neighbouring town of Pereruela, which serves as a ritualistic farewell to the summer season.