An archaeological treasure from the 10th century and two routes with different courses make Charilla interesting for culture and landscape enthusiasts. Those planning a stay can explore its archaeological history and outdoor routes as separate themes: the Colada de Valdepeñas starts in Charilla, while the Ruta de la Sierra enters the town after descending through the Hoya de Charilla. This difference is already useful for planning: one route starts here, while the other passes through the town along its course.

Archaeology: Sites from Several Periods

Charilla has archaeological sites from the Iberian, Roman, and Islamic periods. One named example is the Tesorillo de Charilla, a Hispano-Arabic treasure hoard from the 10th century, now held at the Museo Provincial de Bellas Artes. Numismatic material dates the find to the Caliphate period. It is also one of the few assemblages of Andalusian goldwork from this period. Together, the sites and the treasure hoard offer different clues for understanding Charilla’s history, rather than focusing on just one period.

Church, Chapel, and Cultural Heritage

The church dedicated to Nuestra Señora del Rosario dates from the 16th century and has been extensively altered. The Ermita de la Virgen de Fátima, one of Charilla’s religious sights, is located in the Hoya de Charilla. The Ruta de las Atalayas also has a historical connection: during Islamic rule, Charilla was part of this route.

The Fandango de Charilla is also part of the area’s cultural heritage. Its introduction in the 19th century is attributed to muleteers from the coast of Málaga, who sold fish in the villages and cortijos of the area. The Fandango de Charilla is a local cante similar to Málaga’s Verdiales. This tradition connects a musical expression with a story about trade and routes between the coast and inland settlements.

Routes: Different Durations and Courses

The Colada de Valdepeñas starts in Charilla; the walk takes approximately two and a half hours. After leaving the town, the route follows the course of the old livestock track of the same name. A threshing floor serves as an unusual viewpoint along the way. The route ends at the foot of Cerro La Martina and Rompezapatos. For this route, the starting point, approximate duration, and destination are important planning details. The actual duration depends on your pace and conditions.

The Ruta de la Sierra takes a different course through Charilla: after a descent, it passes through the Hoya de Charilla and enters the town. It follows Calle Prado into the town and leaves Charilla at the plaza at km 22.7 via Calle de la Fuente. So, unlike the Colada de Valdepeñas, the key orientation points for this route are its course through the Hoya, the named streets, and the kilometer marker. Trail conditions and access may change; check conditions before your hike.

Hoya de Charilla and Named Springs

The Hoya de Charilla lies at the foot of La Martina and is an exceptional natural area for nature lovers. Travelers will also encounter its name along the Ruta de la Sierra and at the site of the Ermita de la Virgen de Fátima; these connections help place the different points of interest within the landscape.

Charilla’s named springs and fountains include the Fuente de la Plaza de la Iglesia in Plaza de la Iglesia, the Fuente Grande on Calle Fuente Grande, the Fuente del Piojo in the Hoya de Charilla, and the Fuente y lavadero de la Montijana on Calle Montijana. Their names and locations provide specific landmarks in the town and the Hoya. Water availability and facilities may vary.

For the main travel overview: Alcalá La Real.