Location
Leaving Madrid in the direction of Sierra de Guadarrama, 31km northwards, we reach this town which lies 880m above sea level, in an area of transition between the plain and the mountain foothills. Nevertheless, it is still the second most important municipality in the autonomous region in terms of its size, if we do not include the capital itself.
Population
Its population now exceeds 39,000 inhabitants.
What to See
It boasts the Gothic parish church of La Asunción de Nuestra Señora, whose elements partly belong to the Renaissance and to the flamboyant style. Built between the end of the C15th and the beginning of the C16th, and whose altarpiece comprises panels by the painter Alonso Sánchez, amongst others, it was declared a building of cultural interest by the autonomous government of Madrid. Its tower and south façade are remarkable. Another significant monument is the late Gothic chapel of Santa Ana, also of the flamboyant style with Mudejar finishes. Colmenar Viejo has a noteworthy architectural past and, in no way to the detriment of these two buildings, the latter can be joined by the shrine of Nuestra Señora del Socorro, from the C16th; that of La Soledad, from the same century; the Baroque shrine of La Virgen de los Remedios; the chapel of San Francisco, from the C16th; the bullring, at which some of the best bullfights have been held in the region since it was inaugurated in 1891; the mediaeval bridges of El Gramal and of La Marmota; as well as the C16th bridge over the El Espino stream. The eastern side of its territory is included within the regional park of the Cuenca Alta del Manzanares.
Many routes can be taken from Colmenar Viejo. Just to name a few,we shall mention here the one which takes you to discover the mills, bridges and fulling mills spread around the district.
Useful Facts
It is the seat of the Regulatory Council of the denomination of origin 'Meat from the Sierra de Guadarrama', which speaks of the quality of its cattle and livestock, which continues to be an important occupation here. In 1991, Tres Cantos separated from this district to form its own.
Fiestas
Its ancient fiesta of the 'vaquilla' or the heifer, which is held on 2 February, has been declared of national tourist interest, but this is not the only noteworthy event. One which is extremely pagan and linked to the cult of the earth is the Fiesta de La Maya which is held on 2 May. This fiesta involves choosing which girl or Maya, out of an indefinite number, dressed in a special way in keeping with tradition, will be the Spring Goddess. The girls have to keep still for three hours on a raised altar outside the doors of their houses. The fiestas of the patron saint honour the Virgen de los Remedios and take place from 24 to 28 August. In conjunction with the autonomous region of Madrid, the town council organises the Trade and Industry Fair of the North of Madrid-Exposierra, which aims to support and promote companies located in the north of the region.
