Candelario drop by drop

The Fuente de la Cruz de Piedra, in Candelario, is one of the most outstanding heritage elements of the town. Supplied by the same spring as the Fuente de la Hormiga, it is located in the upper part of the town, in the vicinity of the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción. This temple, one of the most outstanding buildings of the municipality, reflects a rich fusion of architectural styles, where Mudejar, Baroque, Romanesque and Gothic elements can be appreciated. The first stone was laid in 1329, although part of the original structure collapsed in the 17th century. It was then that its reconstruction was undertaken thanks to the initiative of the Duke of Béjar, which is why his noble coat of arms still appears on the building. The fountain, close to this important monument, is part of a traditional hydraulic network that bears witness to the link between water and the history of Candelario.

La Fuente de La Hormiga, located in the picturesque neighborhood of Los Perros de Candelario, is a corner full of cultural and sentimental significance. This fountain, of simple and traditional design, is especially remembered for being the favorite of the local poet Victoriano Gil Mateos, to whom a commemorative plaque has been placed next to it. Its water, pure and fresh, comes from the same spring that feeds other emblematic fountains of the municipality, such as the Fuente de la Cruz de Piedra and the Fuente de Perales, which reinforces its importance in the historical hydraulic system of the town. In addition to its functional value, this small enclave has become a symbol of poetic inspiration and identity for the inhabitants of Candelario, who see in it a reflection of their roots, the mountain landscape and the living memory of its people. A must for those who wish to connect with the soul of the place through its simplest elements.

The Fuente de la Cuesta de la Romana, in Candelario, is a relatively recent construction, although the year 1896 is engraved on the front of the fountain. It is located in an elevated area of the municipality, which allows the visitor to enjoy a privileged view of the town from the heights. From this point you can see different elements of the urban layout, as well as the typical cobblestones that characterize Candelario and the Sierra, reflecting the tradition and harmony with the natural environment that define the town. This fountain, despite its modernity compared to other older ones in the municipality, is perfectly integrated into the architectural and landscape, providing functionality and beauty. It is a regular stopping point for those who go up or down this steep slope, whether to refresh themselves, rest or simply contemplate the landscape and breathe in the history that emanates from every corner of this unique mountain enclave.

The Roman Fountain of Candelario is attached to the Town Hall building, an emblematic construction dating from 1896. Although it is presumed that the fountain was erected at the same time, a visible inscription on the stone shows the date 1813, which could indicate a reuse of older materials or an earlier construction subsequently renovated. The fountain, of sober and functional appearance, integrates harmoniously into the urban environment and is part of the traditional hydraulic heritage of the municipality. The Town Hall, on the other hand, stands out for its large size and a striking mosaic that can be seen when entering through its upper entrance, which makes it a visual landmark within the urban fabric. The proximity between both elements enhances the historical and symbolic importance of this central area of Candelario, where civil architecture and public infrastructures coexist as witnesses of the past and the evolution of the town.

The Fuente de Perales, located in the picturesque town of Candelario, is the last to receive water from the spring that also supplies the Fuente de la Hormiga and the Fuente de la Cruz de Piedra. Its privileged position allows a panoramic view of the long cobbled streets of the village, characterized by its mountain charm and traditional layout. From this point, visitors can easily access the Casa Chacinera Museum, an emblematic space that was once an authentic house dedicated to the production of sausages, one of the most representative trades of the local culture. Today, this museum preserves that living memory through dramatized visits that immerse visitors in the history of the artisanal process of sausage making, while offering tastings of typical products of the area, such as loin, sausage or ham, making this experience a complete tour of the gastronomic and cultural roots of Candelario.

The fountain of the Calle Mayor is the last stop of the route "Candelario Gota a Gota". Located in the main street of the municipality, this street is the backbone of the town, linking its upper and lower parts. As part of the sprinkler system that runs through the town, this fountain highlights the importance of water in the daily life of Candelario, especially in the past, when it was essential to clean the streets after the traditional slaughters. Also linked to these tasks is the iconic batipuerta, with its particular buckle: a unique piece of local architecture that served to protect the interior of the houses from the snow, while allowing animals to be held at the entrance. Along the street you can find several stores, and at the end of its route you can access directly to the Plaza del Humilladero, the homonymous hermitage and the Candelario Park, where nature and tradition are integrated.