The best traffic-free bike rides around Villalonso

Located on a plain near the village of Villalonso (population approximately 75), 11 km from Toro and about 47 km from Zamora. It is a typical square-plan castle-palace with a high moat (now filled in), corner towers, crenellated walls, and a keep crowned by a machicolation.

The current castle was built in the 15th century on the site of an earlier 13th-century fortification, which belonged to the Order of Alcántara. In 1470, Juan de Ulloa and his wife, María de Sarmiento, rebuilt it in a palatial style, placing their coats of arms above the entrance. Juan supported the Portuguese cause in the War of the Castilian Succession and died defending the castle in 1476; his widow then defended it for a time.

The Alcázar of Toro is a historic fortification located in the town of Toro (Zamora, Castile and León), with great heritage and scenic value. It was built in the 10th century during the Christian repopulation, as part of the defensive system against Muslim incursions. It was reinforced in subsequent centuries, especially in the Middle Ages, when Toro acquired strategic importance in the Kingdom of León and later in Castile. It played a prominent role in the War of the Castilian Succession (1475), in the famous Battle of Toro between supporters of Isabella I of Castile and Joanna la Beltraneja.

Well-preserved castle, interesting visit, and beautiful views of the Castilian countryside, especially in spring. Good trails for mountain biking.

On April 23, 1521, the so-called Battle of Villalar was fought on the outskirts of this town. It put an end to the War of the Communities of Castile, which pitted King Charles V against the Comuneros, peasants, nobles, ecclesiastics and bourgeois who had rebelled against the excessive tax pressure imposed by the monarch and the scant participation of Castile in imperial politics. In this battle, the comuneros Padilla, Bravo and Maldonado were captured and executed the following day. The monolith commemorates them.

The inspiration for the Collegiate Church came from the Cathedral of Zamora, and its design also influenced other buildings, such as the Old Cathedral of Salamanca. Construction began in the 12th century under the auspices of the kings of León. It is one of the most characteristic examples of Romanesque in its transitional phase. The works extended over an unusually long period, from the last third of the 12th century to the middle of the 13th. The collegiate church was built in two stages: the first included the side portals, walls and layouts, while the second focused on the roof and a dome with attached towers. If you ever have the opportunity to visit Toro, don't miss the opportunity to explore this wonderful collegiate church. It is a true historical treasure! 🌟

The Clock Tower, also known as the Clock Arch, is located in the walled area of Toro, in the province of Zamora, Spain. Its construction began in 1719 during the reign of Philip V and was completed nineteen years later. The design is attributed to architect Joaquín Churriguera. The tower is located above the old Market Gate, which dates back to the 15th century and surrounded the first walled area of the city. Its height allows it to be seen from any point in Toro. If you ever visit Toro, don't miss the opportunity to admire this historic tower and its clock. It is a true symbol of the city! 🕰️🌟

The Plaza Mayor de Toro is located halfway between the Collegiate Church and the Clock Tower. It is a typical Castilian square, surrounded by three-story houses with arcades and balconies with wrought iron bars. The ground floor of these houses are usually occupied by bars and restaurants. If you ever have the opportunity to visit Toro, be sure to stop by the Plaza Mayor and enjoy its lively and welcoming atmosphere. Have a good trip! 🌟