Church of Mediano, Romanesque church in Mediano, Spain.
The Church of Mediano is a stone structure built in the Romanesque style with a bell tower that protrudes above the reservoir waters. Its thick walls and tower form the only parts visible year-round, while the lower sections remain submerged beneath the surface.
Built in the 1500s as the parish church for the village, the structure served the local community for centuries before the landscape changed dramatically. In the mid-20th century, construction of the Mediano reservoir submerged the lower portions of the building and the entire village beneath it.
The church marks a pivotal moment when rural communities in Spain had to relocate their homes and lives to make space for modern infrastructure projects. Walking around the reservoir shore, you can sense how the building stands as a physical witness to these profound changes that reshaped village life.
The structure is visible from the reservoir shore throughout the year, though visibility of different sections changes with water levels. The best views are found from the paths and overlooks around the water's edge, where you can see both the tower and lower walls depending on seasonal conditions.
During dry periods, the water recedes enough to expose the streets and building foundations of the original village hidden beneath the reservoir. These rare moments offer visitors a glimpse into the submerged settlement and reveal the full scope of what lies below the surface.
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