Park & nature

Las Cogotas

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Las Cogotas is an archaeological site located about 20 km from Avila, near the town of Cardeñosa. It features a well-preserved Celtic settlement (castro) from the Vetton culture, dating back to the 4th-2nd centuries BC. The site includes circular stone houses, defensive walls, and a unique set of granite sculptures known as 'verracos', animal figures (usually bulls or pigs) that were typical of the Vettones. The settlement is set on a hill overlooking the Adaja River valley, offering beautiful views. Nearby, a Romanesque hermitage, the Ermita de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, adds a medieval layer to the site. The hermitage is simple but charming, with a single nave and a semicircular apse. The area is also a nature spot, with trails for walking and birdwatching. Visitors can explore the ruins at their own pace, imagining life in the Iron Age. The site is less crowded than other attractions, providing a peaceful experience. Informational panels explain the history in Spanish and English.

Don't miss

  • Explore the Celtic settlement with its circular stone houses and defensive walls.
  • See the 'verracos', ancient granite animal sculptures unique to the Vettones.
  • Visit the Romanesque hermitage, a small but historic chapel.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the Adaja River valley from the hilltop.
  • Walk the nature trails around the site for birdwatching and tranquility.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Las Cogotas

You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.

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