Discover Valdilecha: Churches, Trails and Local Specialties

The Pasión Viviente de Valdilecha was recognized by the Community of Madrid as a Fiesta of Regional Tourist Interest. It was established in 1997 on the initiative of the Asociación Cultural San Martín; the first performance took place on Maundy Thursday 1998.

Culture and History

The Iglesia de San Martín Obispo was built in the 13th century, probably between 1240 and 1250. Its Mudejar apse is one of the few surviving examples in the Community of Madrid; since 2017, the church has been protected there as an Asset of Cultural Interest in the Monument category. The exterior of the apse can be seen from the church atrium.

The Ermita de la Virgen de la Oliva was built in the 18th century and houses the image of Nuestra Señora de la Oliva, the patron saint of Valdilecha. The first documented references to the ermita date from the 16th century, including a description from 1576. According to local tradition, the Virgen de la Oliva appeared to a shepherd on an olive tree; the chapel was then built in her honor.

The Ermita del Cristo del Amparo was built in the second half of the 17th century and is located on the western edge of Valdilecha's historic center. It houses a figure of Christ on a simple wooden altar. The Ermita de San José was inaugurated on September 7, 2006, and is the newest of the hermitages located in Valdilecha. With 160 years of history, the Hermandad del Patrocinio de San José is one of Valdilecha's oldest brotherhoods.

The festival of the Hermandad del Santísimo Cristo del Amparo is scheduled for the weekend after the patron saint festivities. The Belén Viviente de Valdilecha, a living Nativity scene, is scheduled for the Saturday before December 24; the performance is planned to take place in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento.

Landscape and Trails

The Pinar of Valdilecha is equipped as a picnic and rest area for travelers; its lower section lies at the El Rejal spring area and includes a picnic area.

The Ruta del Pinar passes through the Pinar of Valdilecha and by vineyards, gardens and the Paraje del Llanillo area. As a circular hiking route, it is approximately 3.5 kilometers long, has a moderate difficulty level and takes about 1.5 hours to walk; it is recommended for observing fauna and flora, and begins near a rest area suitable for children.

The Trail del Capellán passes through the landscapes of the tierras del Capellán and the Pinar, and by the striking area of the famous Sombrero del Cura. Its route covers 10.3 kilometers and can also be completed on foot.

The Ruta del Trebolar climbs through olive groves; the salt flats, the Vega and a stream lie along the route. It is considered a 7-kilometer circular route with a moderate difficulty level and a walking time of about 3 hours; spring and autumn are recommended.

Local Products

The local extra virgin olive oil AOVE “LA LEBRERA” from the Cooperativa de Aceite Virgen de la Oliva de Valdilecha carries the designation of origin “Aceites de Madrid.” At the Hermanos Cristóbal bakery in Valdilecha, Hornazos, Tortas de manteca, Mantecados and Bollos de anís are made by hand.

Other Places

Canencia, Humanes De Madrid, Meco, Cubas De La Sagra, Santo Domingo, Cercedilla, Los Molinos, Guadalix de la Sierra

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