Discover Las Herrerías: History, Pilgrimage Route and Blacksmithing Tradition

The Puente Romano de Las Herrerías crosses the Valcarce River and was partially reconstructed in the 15th century. Historic buildings, traces of craftsmanship and paths of faith form three themes through which Las Herrerías can be understood.

Culture and History

The name Las Herrerías refers to four former forges where iron and other metals from the surrounding mountains were processed. An old forge has been restored in Las Herrerías; its traditional tools and former workplace can be seen inside. Those who prefer to explore history through specific sites rather than a chronological overview will find several different starting points here.

The Church of San Julián stands south of the centre of Las Herrerías on a hill. It dates from the 18th century and is classified as belonging to the Baroque-Neoclassical style. It houses a 16th-century image of Christ. In 1178, Las Herrerías was home to a hospital of the Church of Compostela, known as the Hospital of the English.

The Barrio del Hospital takes its name from a hospital of the English founded in the Middle Ages, which Henry II Plantagenet used on his pilgrimage to Santiago in 1177. In the same neighbourhood, the Castro de Peredo, of Roman origin, has visible ditches and wall remains. A building complex called “La Herrería” is located beside the Valcarce River.

The mill at La Herrería preserves all of its machinery and continues to be used to provide a service for the estate. A route from Las Herrerías leads to Molino Verde, a mill considered to be completely preserved.

Routes and Landscape

The Way of St. James reaches Las Herrerías shortly after Ruitelán and continues from there before the strenuous ascent towards O Cebreiro. The circular route “Entre Fuentes y Muiños” begins in the Barrio del Hospital of Las Herrerías. It passes through several river valleys whose streams feed water into the Valcarce, and offers a short version of 11.4 km and a long version of 16 km.

The two route lengths help you choose the circular route according to the desired distance. The Way of St. James has a different historical focus from the forges and mills; those who want to combine both can incorporate the themes separately into their own planning.

Other places include El Valle, Camponaraya, Rodanillo, Isoba, Arlanza, Cacabelos, Pradorrey and Riego De Ambrós.

When comparing holiday apartments in Las Herrerías, you can review travel dates, room category and cancellation policies side by side. Culture, pilgrimage history and walking routes offer different thematic connections; your own planning can weigh these focuses against the two route options.

At the exit of Las Herrerías, by the Fuente de Don Suero, there is a shaded picnic area with a table, benches and barbecue facilities.

For the main travel overview: León.