Buitrago del Lozoya

A walled medieval town with a complete circuit of Moorish walls, a castle, and a museum housing works donated by Picasso's barber. The town is enclosed in a meander of the Lozoya river, creating a natural moat.

Just one hour from central Madrid but in the Sierra Norte, Buitrago is consistently overlooked by both tourists and madrileños heading for the ski resorts.

History

Buitrago del Lozoya is a remarkably preserved medieval town in the Sierra de Guadarrama, distinguished by its complete Moorish walls, the only ones fully preserved in the Community of Madrid. Its strategic location guarding the Northern Access to Madrid made it a significant defensive point throughout history. The current fortifications, including a formidable castle, are largely of Moorish origin, dating from the 11th and 12th centuries, testifying to the long period of Muslim rule in the region. After the Reconquista, it became a strategic stronghold for the Castilian crown and later a seigneury under the influential Mendoza family, who further enhanced its defenses and built the castle in the 15th century.

The town's urban layout, with its narrow streets and fortified church, speaks volumes about its medieval past. Buitrago's cultural significance was bolstered by its association with the Mendoza family, who were patrons of arts and letters. Today, beyond its historical fortifications, Buitrago is renowned for housing a unique collection of works by Pablo Picasso, donated by his barber and friend, Eugenio Arias, further cementing its blend of medieval heritage and artistic legacy.

Highlights

• Complete circuit of Moorish walls
• Picasso Museum (works donated by his barber)
• Medieval castle in the river meander
• Natural river moat surrounding the town

How to get there

From Madrid (Plaza de Castilla), take bus line 191 directly to Buitrago del Lozoya. The journey typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Explore nearby: Community of Madrid guide