Arnedo: Castles, Churches and Museums

Arnedo brings together archaeological, religious and industrial history in tangible places: a castle, churches and caves, as well as museums. The Sendero Monte de Vico also offers a circular route. When choosing a hotel and planning your stay, you might consider whether you want to focus primarily on architectural history, exhibitions or guided visits.

The Sendero Monte de Vico

The Sendero Monte de Vico is a 4.7-kilometre circular route with a stated duration of 1 hour and 45 minutes. It starts at the car park on the road to Préjano, at the entrance to the access road to the Monasterio de Vico on the LR-382. You can include the route as a standalone activity during your stay.

Along the way, the path passes the Ermita de San Marcos and then reaches a viewpoint overlooking the Valle del Cidacos. If you would like to plan a designated walking route in addition to churches, museums and historic sites, this circular trail offers another clearly described option.

Castle and archaeological sites

Castillo de Arnedo stands on the highest part of a hill on the northeastern edge of the urban area. The fortress, of Muslim origin, belonged to the Banu Qasi family in the 9th century. Guided visits start at the Arnedo Tourist Office, Paseo Constitución 38. Check the visiting arrangements before your trip.

Several different historical perspectives come together at Cerro de San Miguel. Cuevas de los Cien Pilares form a medieval underground complex beneath the hill; in the Early Middle Ages, they probably housed the Monastery of San Miguel. The caves are open at weekends, but opening arrangements may vary seasonally. Check the current visiting conditions before your visit.

The rock heritage also includes Poblado Celtíbero del Cerro de San Miguel, which offers guided visits. Another archaeological site is the early medieval necropolis of Cerro de San Miguel, with its anthropomorphic tombs. Some remains are still being studied.

In 2024, it was reported that the interior of the cave in Patio de los Curas could be viewed through a grille at all times. Access is only possible with a guide or as part of an organised activity. Check the current rules for guided access when planning your visit.

Churches and monastic history

Iglesia de Santo Tomás is considered Arnedo’s oldest church. Its present building was constructed in the Late Gothic style in the late 15th or early 16th century. Iglesia de San Cosme y San Damián offers a different architectural impression: this 16th-century church is built of ashlar stone and has three naves with stellar rib vaults.

The main altar of San Cosme y San Damián also offers a tangible point of reference for art history. Created by Sebastián Sola and José Tovar, it was completed in 1699. It is gilded on a base of alabaster and polychrome wood. Comparing the church architecture with the altar makes the different aspects of religious art in Arnedo easy to appreciate.

Monasterio Nuestra Señora de Vico was founded in 1456 by the Franciscan friar Fray López de Salinas and houses an exhibition of sacred art. Visits are possible by prior arrangement; only the church is open to visitors. As visiting arrangements may change, confirm the conditions in advance.

Museums: natural sciences and footwear

Museo de Ciencias Naturales de Arnedo is divided into three sections, “El Ser humano”, “La Tierra” and “La Vida”, and contains nearly 1,000 exhibits. Its displays range from the geological and biological development of the Earth and its minerals to the origin of life. A reservation or consultation with the Tourist Office is required for a guided visit.

Museo Ciudad del Calzado de Arnedo is located in the Nuevo Cinema building. Its exhibition traces the history of footwear, from espadrilles and artisan shoemakers to the first industrial manufacturing processes. Together, the two museums offer insights into different subjects: natural history on the one hand, and the development of shoemaking and its early industrial production on the other.

Festive traditions throughout the year

Fiestas de San Cosme y San Damián is recognised as a festival of national tourist interest. Its traditions include Robo de los Santos and Rosario de la Aurora. As the annual programme may vary, check the event dates for the year in question if you are planning a trip during the festivities.

Día del Ajo Asado de Arnedo takes place every year on Maundy Thursday. The event includes a public tasting of roasted garlic and eggs. If this culinary event is a key factor in planning your trip, schedule your stay around the date.

Discover more destinations: Aldeanueva de Cameros, Abalos, Valgañón, Baños de Río Tobía, Azofra, Cuzcurrita De Río Tirón, Lumbreras, Zaldierna.

For the wider travel overview: La Rioja.