Patones de Arriba, human settlement in Patones, Community of Madrid, Spain
Patones de Arriba is a small village in the Madrid region of Spain, known for its dark slate houses and narrow cobblestone streets that wind through the settlement. The buildings follow the mountain slope, forming a tightly woven pattern of traditional rural architecture.
The village formed in the 16th century when the Patón family established a new settlement that bore their name. It remained part of Uceda for centuries before gaining independence in the late 1700s as a distinct municipality.
The slate houses define the village character and show how residents built their homes from materials found in the local earth. Simple facades and ancient stone structures tell of a straightforward, grounded way of life that remains visible today in the streets and details throughout the settlement.
The village has two parts, and visitors often park below and walk uphill for a few minutes through a scenic path to reach the upper settlement. Weekdays are quieter for exploring, as weekends get busier, and local restaurants should be reserved in advance.
The village has a fascinating connection to an 18th-century legend about a so-called King of Patones, a story that remains alive in conversations with residents today. This legendary figure adds a layer of historical depth that shapes local storytelling.
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