Montefrío, Medieval hilltop settlement in Granada Province, Spain
Montefrío is a municipality in Granada Province with white buildings scattered across multiple elevations climbing the hillsides beneath two striking churches perched on separate rocky outcrops. The settlement spreads across different heights and creates a distinctive appearance with its bright houses set against the natural landscape.
A Nasrid fortress from the 14th century protected the Muslim kingdom until 1486 when Catholic forces transformed it into the Iglesia de la Villa. This conversion marked the transition from medieval Muslim rule to Christian authority in the region.
The Iglesia de la Encarnación is Spain's only circular church, designed in the 18th century following the Pantheon's architectural style. This unusual building shapes how the place looks and draws visitors interested in religious architecture.
The municipality has several marked hiking trails running through olive groves and natural landscapes, connecting to archaeological sites. Wearing comfortable shoes helps visitors explore the different paths and reach viewpoints with good views.
The panoramic views from here rank among the world's finest and showcase the churches perched on dramatic rock formations. Many visitors are surprised by how perfectly the two main churches sit on their rocky positions when seen from a distance.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
