Brihuega, Guadalajara: Lavender Fields and Medieval Charm Crowned “Magic town of teh Year”
BRIHUEGA, GUADALAJARA – Just over an hour from Madrid, the town of brihuega, population 2,800, has been recognized for its captivating blend of medieval history and stunning natural beauty, earning the title of “Magic Town of the Year.” The designation highlights Brihuega’s well-preserved historic center and, most notably, its expansive lavender fields which burst into vibrant purple bloom between late June and early july, drawing thousands of visitors annually.
The urban center of Brihuega is designated a Historical-Artistic Site, boasting cobbled streets, the ruins of the Peña Bermeja Castle, and three 13th-century churches: San Miguel, San Felipe, and Santa María de la Peña. Remnants of the town’s old walls and the Arch of Cazagón, one of its original entrance gates, also remain.
Beyond its architectural treasures, Brihuega offers the Royal Bath Factory, an 18th-century building now operating as a spa. The surrounding Alcarria region is transformed each summer by the flowering lavender, covering kilometers of landscape. Its proximity to Madrid – approximately an hour and a quarter drive – makes Brihuega a popular escape for city dwellers seeking respite from daily life.
