Explore Penagos from different perspectives: its architectural history spans religious buildings and a bridge over the Pisueña; the karst landscape of Cabárceno tells the story of past mining activity. If you prefer to get around on foot or on wheels, the Vía Verde del Pas offers another focus for planning your trip.

Iglesia de San Jorge: architectural history and a rediscovered painting

The Iglesia de San Jorge is considered Penagos’ most valued monument. The present-day church was built between the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Construction of the church is dated to 1585–1589, and work on the tower to 1655. These different dates point to a longer building history, rather than dating the church and tower to the same time.

The main altar has its own story, too: during its restoration in 1995, a painting of Saint George was discovered behind the altar niche. It consists of six connected walnut panels. George appears in armour on a white horse, slaying a dragon. A princess watches him from before a castle that protects a city. The painting thus connects the battle with a scene in which the threatened city is part of the story depicted.

Ermita and Palacio: different traces of time

Two historical dates should be distinguished for the Ermita de Santa Eulalia: the modest religious building dates from the 17th century, but records of the hermitage go back to the early Middle Ages. The construction date of the present-day building therefore differs from the earlier mention of the site.

The Palacio de Miranda was once the seat of a town council. It comprises a house dating from before 1682 and a tower dating from before 1739. The house and tower therefore each have their own date. In Penagos’ districts, you can explore the cultural heritage of the municipal capital on a short walk along the road, with the Palacio de Miranda standing out. Check local access conditions before your walk, as they may change.

The Puente de Búmbaro over the Pisueña

The Puente de Búmbaro crosses the River Pisueña and has three semicircular arches. It is classified as a medieval bridge from the 16th century. Its arches are a specific architectural feature that distinguishes the bridge from Penagos’ religious and stately buildings.

Cabárceno: karst and municipal boundaries

Part of the Parque de la Naturaleza de Cabárceno lies within the municipality of Penagos, while the park also extends into other municipalities. This geographical context is useful when planning a trip: Cabárceno does not belong to Penagos alone. The park covers 750 hectares and has 20 kilometres of roads.

The karst landscape of Cabárceno was formed by past mining activity and is considered a valuable geological heritage site. Alongside the churches, Palacio and bridge, this offers another thematic way to explore Penagos and its surroundings.

Vía Verde del Pas: routes on the move

The Vía Verde del Pas begins in the Comarca Valles Pasiegos, within the municipality of Penagos. The route can be enjoyed on walks, bike rides, inline skates and scooters; it is also suitable for families with children. The route is therefore not limited to a single way of getting around. You can choose what suits you best: walking, cycling or one of the other options mentioned.

The Astillero–Penagos section of the Camino Natural Vía Verde del Pas is suitable for people with reduced mobility; the exact surface conditions may change. As surface conditions can change, check them before your trip. This information refers to the section mentioned and should be distinguished from the general description of activities on the Vía Verde.

There are several distinct starting points for choosing a travel theme: architectural history through the church, Ermita, Palacio and bridge; landscape history through the karst of Cabárceno; and getting active on the Vía Verde. This lets you decide which of these perspectives you want to shape your stay in Penagos, without combining them into a set itinerary.

Discover more destinations: Cahecho, Otañes, Camaleño, Tresabuela, Los Tojos, Bárcena de Ebro, Orejo, Puente Viesgo

For the broader travel overview: Cantabria.