STAGE 25 - PONFERRADA to VILLAFRANCA del bierzo

VILLAFRANCA DEL BIERZO

Villafranca's history traces back to the Neolithic age when the first human settlements appeared. However, the Celtiberians left the earliest historical imprint, establishing Bergidum, later known as Bergidum Flavium, following the Roman conquest. 

The Middle Ages ushered in a new chapter for the town, as it emerged as a vital rest stop along the Way of St. James pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. Mentioned in documents as early as 791, Villafranca became a beacon of hospitality for weary pilgrims, as reflected in its name, meaning "French Town," derived from the French borough that grew around a Cluniac monastery founded in 1070.

In 1486, King Ferdinand II of Aragon visited the town to create the Marquisate of Villafranca under Luis Pimentel y Pacego. The marquisate would remain in the hands of the Álvarez de Toledo family for centuries, shaping the town's socio-political landscape.

In 1619, Villafranca gained spiritual significance with the interment of Saint Lawrence of Brindisi in the Monastery of the Assumption, further cementing its status as a pilgrimage destination.

However, Villafranca's history is not without its trials and tribulations. During the Peninsular War, the town served as a battleground, enduring sackings by English troops and occupation by French forces. The scars of war left their mark, but Villafranca endured, ultimately regaining its freedom in 1810.

Highlights of Villafranca del Bierzo include the Iglesia de Santiago de Villafranca del Bierzo. You pass this Church on the left just as you walk into the town. A stunning example of Romanesque architecture, it is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Church of Santiago originated in the medieval period and was likely constructed during the 12th and 13th centuries. It contains The "Puerta del Perdón" or "Door of Pardon."

The Puerta del Perdón symbolises forgiveness and redemption for pilgrims who seek spiritual solace and pardon for their sins. It represents an opportunity for pilgrims to reflect on their journey, seek forgiveness, and experience renewal before continuing. It is believed that passing through this door granted indulgence to pilgrims, offering them spiritual benefits on their pilgrimage journey.

Another notable landmark is the Castillo de los Marqueses de  (Villafranca (Castle of the Marquises of Villafranca). This fortress-like structure was a grand mansion or palace built in the 16th century. It served as the residence of the Marquises of Villafranca.

It was constructed in the Renaissance style during the 16th century as a residence for the Marquises of Villafranca, who were powerful nobles in the region.

While not a defensive fortress, like medieval castles, the Castle of the Marquises of Villafranca has a stately and imposing appearance. It features elements of Renaissance architecture, including symmetrical facades, decorative details, and a grand entrance.

Today, the Castle of the Marquises of Villafranca is privately owned and is not open to the public.

PRACTICALITIES

Villafrance del Bierzo has all the facilities you could need. However, options become more limited over the next two to three days ahead until you reach Sarria. Whilst there will be plenty of places to stay, bars, and restaurants to eat and drink in, the shops you come across will be well stocked but small.

1. Accommodation: Villafranca del Bierzo offers a range of accommodation options, including albergues, hostels and hotels.

2. Transportation: Depending on your location, you can reach Villafranca del Bierzo by bus or car. Alsa Bus is a popular option, with connections to Santiago de Compostela, Madrid Léon, and other cities. 

3. Dining: There are many dining options, from traditional Spanish cuisine to international fare.

4. Facilities: You can access cash points, banks, medical facilities, pharmacies and grocery stores.

WHERE TO STAY

• Albergue Ave Fénix, C. Santiago, 10+34 987 542 655, http://www.albergueavefenix.com
• Albergue de la Piedra, C. Espíritu Santo, 14, +34 987 540 260, http://www.alberguedelapiedra.com
• Albergue de Peregrinos de Villafranca del Bierzo, C. Santiago, s/n, +34 987 542 356
• Albergue El Castillo, C. del Castillo, 8, +34 987 540 344, http://www.albergueelcastillo.es
• Albergue Leo, C. Ribadeo, 10, +34 987 54 26 58, http://www.albergueleo.com
• Albergue-Hospedería San Nicolás El Real, Trav. de San Nicolás, 4, +34 696 978 653, http://www.sannicolaselreal.com
• Apartamentos El Camino, C. Salinas, 7, +34 699 921 964 http://www.apartamentoselcamino.com
• Casa Rural La Llave, C. del Agua, 37, +34 987 542 739, http://www.lallaverural.es
• Hostal Burbia, C. Fuente Cubero, 13, +34 987 542 667, http://www.hostalburbia.com
• Hostal El Cruce, C. El Salvador, 41, +34 987 103 741, http://www.hostalcruce.es
• Hostal La Puerta del Perdón, Pl. de Prim, 4, +34 987 540 614, http://www.lapuertadelperdon.com
• Hostal Méndez, C. Espíritu Santo, 1, +34 987 540 055 http://www.restaurantemendez.com
• Hostal Tres Campanas, Av. de Paradaseca, 27, +34 670 359 692, http://www.hostaltrescampanas.com
• Hostal Ultreia, C. Puentecillo, 8, +34 987 540 391, http://www.hostalultreia.com
• Hotel Las Doñas del Portazgo, C. Ribadeo, 2, +34 987 542 742, http://www.elportazgo.es
• Hotel San Francisco, Pl. Mayor, 6, +34 987 540 465, http://www.hotelsanfrancisco.org
• La Casa de Leo, C. Pena Picón (Ed. Venecia), +34 629 206 074
• Parador de Villafranca del Bierzo, Av. Calvo Sotelo, 28, +34 987 540 175, http://www.parador.es/en/paradores/parador-de-villafranca-del-bierzo
• Posada Plaza Mayor, Pl. Mayor, 4, +34 987 540 620, http://www.villafrancaplaza.com

WINEMAKING AND THE BIERZO DENOMINACIÓN DE ORIGEN (DO)

Based in Cacabelos, The Bierzo Wine Regulatory Council (Consejo Regulador de la Denominación de Origen Bierzo) is the governing body responsible for overseeing and regulating the production, quality, and promotion of wines from the Bierzo region. Established in 1989, the council plays a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and authenticity of Bierzo wines, promoting the region's viticultural heritage on both national and international stages.

 The council operates within the framework of the Denominación de Origen (DO) system, Spain's official classification system for wines. DO status is granted to specific regions that meet stringent criteria related to factors such as grape varieties, winemaking practices, and geographical boundaries. Bierzo was awarded DO status in 1989, recognising the region's unique terroir and the quality of its wines.

The Bierzo DO encompasses an area of approximately 3,000 square kilometres in the province of León, primarily centred around the town of Ponferrada. The region is characterised by its diverse microclimates, ranging from mountainous terrain to river valleys, contributing to the complexity and diversity of Bierzo wines.

The primary grape variety used in the production of Bierzo wines is Mencía, a red grape indigenous to the region. Other permitted red grape varieties include Alicante Bouschet, Garnacha Tintorera, and Merenzao (known locally as Bastardo). Godello is the predominant grape variety for white wines, known for its crisp acidity and aromatic profile.

The Bierzo Wine Regulatory Council establishes strict quality standards and regulations governing every aspect of wine production, from vineyard management to bottling. These standards are designed to ensure that wines bearing the Bierzo DO label meet specific quality and authenticity criteria.

In addition to regulatory functions, the council is actively promoting and marketing Bierzo wines domestically and internationally.