Surrounded by large mountains, the picturesque town of Chulillalocated 320 meters above sea level and next to the Turia River, is home to an idyllic natural environment with its natural pools, known as “Los Charcos”. The town is also famous for its steep medieval-style streets and hiking trails, such as the Ruta de los Pantaneros, which allows you to explore mountainous landscapes and cross impressive suspension bridges.
In addition to its natural beauty, Chulilla has a rich historical and cultural heritage. The Castle of Chulilla, with Muslim origins and transformed into ecclesiastical prisonis a historical jewel that winds along the mountainside, offering a rich testimony of its strategic importance throughout the centuries. On the other hand, the cave paintings of the Falfiguera ravine, discovered in 1998 and protected since 2011, represent a valuable sample of prehistoric art that is part of the World Heritage of the rock art of the Mediterranean arc of the Iberian Peninsula.
Chulilla: natural and cultural charm in the heart of the Serranos
@mochilerosdospuntocero Today we tell you three very cool plans to do in Chulilla, Valencia. 1️⃣. Go up to the Castle and enjoy the panoramic view of the town, the best option is to see the sunset from there. 2️⃣. Take the Hanging Bridges route. An easy route to do, and with a beautiful landscape. They charge a small fee of €1 per person to maintain the area. 3️⃣. The Blue Puddle. It is a pool of water that is formed after a dam, where a pleasant and beautiful pond with turquoise waters has been created that in summer is ideal for taking a bath and cooling off. Did you like it??? In the blog you have more information about the Chulilla Hanging Bridges route, and about Charco Azul. #chulilla #chulillahangingbridges #chulilladevalencia #puddleblue #charcoazulchulilla #hangingbridgesroute #Valencia #valenciancommunity ♬ Lottery (feat. LU KALA) – Latto
The history of Chulilla has been influenced by the defensive and economic character of the river. During the Islamic era, the area was part of the Islamic castle of Xulella, and after the Christian conquest, the territory became part of the Barony of Chulillaadministered by the Cabildo and Bishop of Valencia. In the 14th century, the Muslim population was replaced by Christians, with a notable change in local surnames throughout the 15th to 17th centuries.
In the 18th century, Chulilla was divided into new municipalities such as Villar and Losa, while the 19th century brought with it modernization, conflicts such as carlist warsand the construction of new mills and crops. Despite these changes, Chulilla maintained its rural character until the 20th century, facing events such as the fire of 1994. Currently, the town seeks to revitalize its economy, focusing on tourism and the enhancement of its monumental and natural heritage. .
Places of interest
Among the essential places is the Chulilla Castlea ruined fortress that still preserves part of its original structure. This castle, which served as an ecclesiastical prison under the order of San Juan de Ribera, stands out for its cisterns and engravings similar to those of the Denia Castle.
The Church of the Virgin of the Angelsbuilt on an old mosque in the 15th and 16th centuries, is another key point. It has two naves and houses a carving of the Virgin and Child from the 16th century, along with a canvas of the Virgin of the Castle with Child from the 17th century.
The Hermitage of Santa Barbaraan outstanding example of Gothic architecture built in 1364 and renovated in 1730, is famous for its ribbed vault and elegant design with pointed arches and pilasters. These monuments reflect the rich historical and cultural heritage of Chulilla.
Hiking routes
In Chulilla, three hiking routes stand out, adapted to different skill levels and natural attractions. The Hanging Bridges Routethe best known of all, is five kilometers long and has a medium-low difficulty, suitable for families and children. Created in the 1950s to connect the town with the reservoir, this route offers stunning views of a deep canyon and crosses two unique suspension bridges, one 15 meters high and the other 5.5 meters high.
The Blue Charco Route It is a short 3.8 kilometer walk with low difficulty, ideal to enjoy with the family. It begins in the town’s Plaza Mayor and follows the Turia River canyon to the popular Charco Azul, where bathing is allowed. The route includes rest stops and displays historic water conveyance facilities.
Finally, the Gollizno Cave, Treasure Cave and Frailecico Route It is a five-kilometer circular trail with medium-high difficulty. It begins at the Plaza de la Baronía and passes through various caves, including Cueva del Gollizno, known for its seasonal waterfall. The tour offers panoramic views and close contact with the local flora, ending at the starting point.
