Puntos de Interés
Municipality
Fariza de Sayago
Fariza de Sayago is situated in the extensive meadows where the Pisón stream flows, approximately 5 km from Zafara.
The village of Fariza de Sayago has been a crossing point to the central plateau since the remote Iron Age, as evidenced by the human remains found in the locality and the prehistoric altars distributed near the Duero. Furthermore, the architectural heritage of Fariza de Sayago indicates that certain later civilisations have established themselves in this region. One of the region's most notable historical landmarks is its extensive network of bridges. Among these is the Puente Grande, which spans the Pisón stream. This ancient bridge, constructed from granite blocks, was traversed by Roman legions during the High Imperial period.
Another heritage item that evokes the past of this village in Zamora is the fountain, which is constructed in the typical Sayago style. One such structure is La Fontanica, which was constructed using ashlar and granite blocks to the southwest of the village. The architectural design of the structure is based on a carved stone mouth and a barrel vault roof. It is not uncommon for water troughs or basins to be situated near these locations, where cattle and other local animals are kept. Furthermore, they were also used as a social gathering place.
Regarding the village's ecclesiastical constructions, the Cristo del Humilladero Chapel, which was erected on a former military strategic point, and the Nuestra Señora del Castillo Chapel, situated in an impressive viewpoint affording a panoramic view of the cliffs that overlook the Duero gorges. The latter building, constructed between the 16th and 17th centuries, is of particular interest, not only due to its exceptional location, but also because it houses the remarkable religious treasure of the 13th-14th century Romanesque carving of Nuestra Señora la Virgen del Castillo.
This revered figure is paraded in a procession on the first Sunday of June, during the pilgrimage held in his honour. One of the most renowned processions in Sayago is that of the Virgin, accompanied by the Viriato banner. This is a set of enormous banners, measuring between 7 and 8 metres in height, upon which each town's commendation is embroidered. They march to the rhythm of the municipal band. This celebration, previously designated as the Day of the Processions, convenes hundreds of attendees with keen interest in this remarkable event, which has been designated as a regional tourist attraction.
Fariza de Sayago has a glossary of its own proverbs and sayings, which is a testament to the town's cultural heritage. The region is rich in ethnological heritage, and we are familiar with proverbs such as "Si en enero flores, en mayo dolores" (If in January flowers, in May pains) and "Chimenea que tira poco, el humo tira a los ojos" (Chimney that shoots little, the smoke shoots in the eyes).