Church of Santiago (10th century) · Peñalba de Santiago

Located in the foothills of the Montes Aquilianos, the village preserves a magnificent example of rural architecture of the Bierzo region: stone houses, slate roofs and rustic wooden corridors. At its heart stands the church of Santiago de Peñalba, a jewel of Mozarabic art, completed in 937 by Abbot Salomón. Its humble exterior contrasts with an interior of horseshoe arches and beautiful remains of mural painting. From the village, a peaceful walk leads to the cave of San Genadio, where the saintly bishop sought spiritual retreat in the midst of nature.