El Molar, municipality in Spain
El Molar is a town in the Community of Madrid situated at about 2,800 feet (850 meters) elevation near the Sierra Norte foothills. The settlement features narrow streets with traditional houses, over 200 caves built into the surrounding hills, and a mix of modern and historic structures.
Early Celtiberian peoples first settled the area, as proven by archaeological remains. During the Middle Ages, the territory served as a critical frontier zone of the Cordoban Caliphate protected by watchtowers, until King Alfonso VI formally established the settlement under its current name.
The name El Molar originated during the reign of King Alfonso VI and may refer to the shape of a nearby hill or to traditional crafts once common in the area. Local festivals celebrate these traditions through music, dance, and regional food that reflect how the community maintains its heritage today.
Visitors reach El Molar easily by car via the A-1 highway or by bus from Madrid. The town offers small hotels, rural houses, and restaurants built into the caves, where you can try local dishes and wines made in the area.
The town contains over 200 caves dug into the surrounding hills, many used since the Middle Ages as wine cellars and storage spaces. Today many of these caves function as restaurants and taverns with rustic charm, offering visitors an unusual dining experience.
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