Puntos de Interés
Culture
Machueco Roman Forge
Located in close proximity to the village of Alvariza, within the council of Belmonte de Miranda, there is an ancient forge.
The precise age of this historical site remains a subject of debate among experts, most believe that it may date back to the time when Romans inhabited the Iberian Peninsula.
Powered by the Tabladón stream, the forge's machinery uses a reservoir to control water flow through a wooden gate. The water's force activates a wheel with multiple blades, causing the rotation of a toothed piece known as the malos obreiros (bad workers). This rotation raises and lowers a 2-meter iron hammer referred to as the "machuco", giving the forge its name. The hammer strikes an anvil with considerable force (approximately 150 kg), facilitating metalworking.
Historical evidence suggests that the forge served the Cistercian monastery of Santa María de Lapedo, focusing on the production of iron tools. Although the site has been designated as an Asset of Cultural Interest, it is currently not open to the public as it is privately owned.