Puntos de Interés
Municipality
Charca de Las Escarbajas
On the banks of the Duero river lies the village of Vilvestre, a quiet town in Salamanca on the border with Portugal, located between the municipalities of Saucelle and Mieza.
The municipality is situated in a privileged setting, encompassed by the Arribes del Duero Natural Park and boasting a rich historical heritage.
The origins of Vilvestre can be traced back to the Chalcolithic period, with other archaeological sites throughout the municipality providing evidence of the settlement of later peoples, including the Celts and the Romans. All this can be discovered in the Casa de los Frailes Museum in the town. However, it was during the Middle Ages that “Bilbestre”, as it was known during this period, began to develop and gain relevance due to its border situation with Portugal. This resulted in “Bilbestre” becoming a defensive enclave.
The Castle of Vilvestre, which is estimated to date back to the beginning of the 13th century, was constructed with the intention of serving as a strategic point in the defence of the Kingdom of León against the Kingdom of Portugal. It has survived to the present day, largely intact. The site is situated at the highest point of the locality and encompasses an area of 11 hectares, which can be subdivided into distinct zones. On the one hand, the fortress is characterised by the impressive remains of its masonry walls, which delineate the outline of the tower. On the other hand, evidence of prehistoric habitation, including cave paintings and other remains, has been uncovered, indicating that the tower was constructed upon an ancient settlement. The complex was designated an Asset of Cultural Interest in 1949.
Additionally, another noteworthy Asset of Cultural Interest is situated in the village centre: the Rollo de Justicia de Vilvestre. This monument, constructed from local granite masonry, is believed to date back to the 16th century. The structure is constructed upon a column of exquisite Manueline Gothic design, embellished with vegetal motifs, shells, and sagueados. The peak was subsequently replaced centuries later, with a Latin cross being erected in its place. This phenomenon emerged when the punishments, which were implemented to disgrace and execute those convicted on the list, ceased to be carried out. The work remains a significant and popular piece, known today as La Cruz.
Close by is the 16th-century Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción. The Gothic-style ecclesiastical building is notable for its interior and sensational altarpiece, crafted from granite. It also houses a museum of saints, a cistern discovered during the last restoration, and a collection of remarkable tombstones. The festivities dedicated to San Sebastián, which commence on 20 January, originate from this church. Here, the figure of the patron saint of Vilvestre is carried in procession.
Upon following the street that leads to the Mirador del Castillo, one encounters the village's much-loved chapel, which is dedicated to Nuestra Señora del Castillo. The building, erected in the 18th century, exhibits a marked baroque style. This chapel serves as the focal point of devotion in the village and is the venue for the festivities of Vilvestre, which take place on the 14 May.