Pastrana, Medieval municipality in Guadalajara Province, Spain
Pastrana is a small medieval municipality in Guadalajara Province situated at 759 meters elevation on a hilltop. Streets follow the original medieval layout with narrow passages, stone buildings, and a central square where historical structures converge.
During the 16th century, Pastrana flourished under the patronage of the Princess of Eboli, transforming into a textile manufacturing center. This period left architectural and economic marks that remain visible today.
The name Pastrana comes from Arabic origins, reflecting the area's long settlement history. Residents continue to maintain traditional craftsmanship connected to the town's textile past.
Pastrana is easily reached from Madrid by bus or car in about 90 minutes using the A2 highway. The town itself is walkable, though the hilltop location makes comfortable footwear advisable.
Beneath Pastrana lies a network of medieval cisterns that stored water and distributed it through channels to homes. This underground system was an ingenious solution for water supply in earlier times.
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