See Don Quixote’s La Mancha
Following a route through Castile La Mancha in Eastern Spain, one can understand the culture and history of Spain through the eyes of literary hero Don Quixote.
The book written by Miguel de Cervantes in two volumes is considered one of the greatest works of European literature. It portrays the adventures of fictitious character Don Quixote, and his self-proclaimed mission to revive chivalry alongside his trusted squire, Sancho Panza.
The region of Castile-La Mancha, much of which is green and a nature lover’s paradise, provides the backdrop for Don Quixote’s grand adventure.
Alcalá de Henares
The creator of “Don Quixote,” Miguel De Cervantes, was born in the town of Alcalá de Henares, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town is northeast of Madrid and means “citadel on the river.”
One of the first university towns
Alcalá de Henares was one of the earliest towns in Europe to begin a university. The works of Cervantes paved the way for its academic excellence and its status in the world of literature. The location is home to many magnificent buildings adorned with cupolas and turrets.
Plaza Mayor at Chinchon
The 16th-century Plaza Mayor is unique for its 234 wooden balconies. Used for livestock fairs in earlier days, the plaza square offers excellent dining options. Local delicacies include a rich soup made with plenty of garlic, two-day-old bread, olive oil and paprika to tease the taste buds.
Cliffs of Cuenca
Located in a beautiful countryside, Cuenca is known for housing Spain’s first Gothic cathedral and the ornate Casas Colgadas (hanging houses), suspended from sheer cliffs overlooking the Huécar river. Cuenca had Muslim origins until Christians took over the city in the 12th century.
Where it all began
Pictured here is the Casa de Medrano cell in Argamasilla de Alba, where Cervantes supposedly began writing “Don Quixote.” Cervantes struggled to make a living. It is believed that a painting donated by an unfortunate noble man to a local church was the inspiration for Cervantes’ story.
Ancient Parador de Alarcón
Among Don Quixote’s plains, Alarcón is surprisingly unique. It is a medieval walled city which contains an impressive castle, Parador de Alarcón, built by Muslims in the 8th century.
Where to find the windmills
Consuegra is a city of windmills – and a castle. The 11 molinos (meaning “windmills”), are pristine white cylinders with black conical caps. Each have names, including Sanco, Bolero and Mambrino. In operation until the 1980s, the windmills were then used to grind wheat.
Capital of saffron
Consuegra is also considered a capital of saffron spice. Crocus sativus is the specific species flower from which saffron is harvested in Consuegra. Considered the most expensive spice in the world, it takes about 75,000 flowers to produce one pound of saffron.
Wide open spaces
Castilla-La Mancha, or “New Castilla,” contains a wide plateau, with farms and ranches on the suitable flat land and vineyards in the mountainous areas. Archaeological remains confirm human presence in the area for over 4,000 years. Most of these were farmers raising sheep and producing cheese from the milk. Cheese connoisseurs seek out the artisanal mancehego that comes from this land.
Melting pot of cultures
Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has for centuries been a congregation of three cultures: Christians, Jewish and Muslim. Influence of the three religions can be seen throughout the old, narrow, winding streets and the vibrant art cafes and shops.