Municipality

La Fregeneda

La Fregeneda is situated on the border between Salamanca and Portugal. This municipality benefits from the exceptional natural beauty of the Arribes del Duero Natural Park, situated at the confluence of the Duero and Águeda rivers.

The municipality of La Fregeneda is situated in an area that has been a popular destination for numerous societies since the Upper Palaeolithic era. The archaeological site of Arroyo de las Almas, situated in the valleys at the confluence of the rivers, has been designated an Asset of Cultural Interest. The site boasts an exceptional rock art collection, which includes zoomorphic engravings such as deer, goats and horses, as well as other geometric engravings. This prehistoric site is the second most important in the province of Salamanca, after Siega Verde. It forms part of the regional group of open-air Palaeolithic art in the Duero basin. This ensemble represents a significant contribution to the historical and cultural richness of the entire region.

In addition to this noteworthy vestige, there are other historical remains scattered throughout the municipality, including the Mesa de los Curas necropolis, sanctuaries such as Santa Olalla, and other intriguing traces of La Fregeneda's historical past. However, the town's importance grew significantly during the 19th century due to the construction of the Vega Terrón Quay and the Duero railway. These works would represent a significant engineering achievement and facilitate closer trade links between Spain, Portugal and other countries.

The construction of the railway would result in the creation of some remarkable tunnels and impressive bridges, which would set new standards in engineering. These achievements would facilitate the unification of two countries, separated by the Duero and Águeda rivers, through the construction of a railway line. Regarding Vega Terrón Pier, it would represent the culmination of the extensive construction efforts undertaken since the 16th century to make the Duero navigable and connects Porto with Spain. Vega Terrón Pier would therefore become the sole river dock with access to the sea in the entire Castilla y León region. The railway is currently designated as an Asset of Cultural Interest, while the quay remains operational, although it has diversified its activities to cater to the tourist market.

It should be noted that the local economy is supported by the production and sale of local products, including sheep's cheese, almonds, wine and oil from the region. The area is home to a thriving mining industry, with significant deposits of tin, lithium and pegmatites.

Despite the loss of some traditions due to depopulation, the festivities dedicated to Las Candelas on 2, 3 and 4 February and the Almond Tree Day held between February and March are still observed.