Sajazarra, one of the most beautiful towns in La Rioja

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Have you heard of The most beautiful towns in Spain? It is an organization created in March 2011, inspired by similar associations from other corners of the world, which aims to create a network of charming towns in Spain under the same quality brand.

To form part of this association, towns must have a population of less than 15,000 inhabitants (if they have more than 5,000, they must have a historic center in perfect condition) and have a certified natural or architectural heritage. In addition, they must overcome minimum quality criteria in matters such as cleaning, vehicle circulation, the conservation of facades, care of flowers and green areas ... A town that has just obtained the stamp of "One of the Most Beautiful Villages from Spain ”is Sajazarra. Do you want to discover it?

The first town in La Rioja to become part of the association

Although the list of the 13 most beautiful new towns in Spain was made public last year, Sajazarra has had to wait until now to wear the distinctive plaque at its entrance and in its plaza. It is the first town of The Rioja in being admitted to the association, that is, the first one that will be able to benefit from the advantages of belonging to it: it will attract more tourism, stimulate business and hospitality activity and, ultimately, will notice a favorable economic impact on the community.


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A beautiful landscape mixed with an important heritage

Sajazarra is located in the Haro region, which is located in Rioja Alta, the westernmost region of the autonomous community. Specifically, the town is located at the confluence of the Aguanal and Ea rivers. Undoubtedly, the best thing about this place is that its landscape of extensive vineyards and fruit trees is intertwined with buildings of significant architectural and cultural value. Of course, its green and fresh landscape offers hiking and biking trails near the water. In addition, we cannot forget to mention its kind climatic conditions and its varied fauna. In short, we are talking about an authentic ecological paradise.

How could it be otherwise, his gastronomy, mainly based on sausages and products from the garden, is one of the great tourist attractions of this town and its surroundings.


Buildings and monuments of interest

With a population of only 137 inhabitants (data from January 2010), Sajazarra has many interesting buildings and monuments. Highlights the Castle-Palace, built in the 16th century. It is one of the most beautiful fortresses in the entire region. Also striking are the remains of the wall, especially the only one of the four gates that remains, called El Arco, which is located between the church and the old Town Hall.

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Of course, we must also highlight the parish church of Santa María de la Asunción, well interest cultural of the XII century; the hermitage of Santa María de Cillas, a 13th century Romanesque Herrerian building; the Town Hall, built in the late 19th century; the Casa de los Loma Osorio, a 17th century baroque house; and the Casa de los Ruiz de Loizaga, another baroque mansion, although in this case from the second half of the 18th century.

Important events

Finally, we want to comment that in Sajazarra two important events are held beyond their local festivals. We refer to the Ancient Music Festival, which is celebrated in the month of August, with classical music concerts in the Church of the Assumption for several days; and the Unpacking of Antiquities, a fair of yesterday's products that takes place on the last Sunday of July. Then we leave you with our Gallery, where you will find some images of this beautiful town of La Rioja. Do not miss it!

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  • La Rioja, towns
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