In the province of Guadalajara is the village, a village that, despite its abandonment in the 1960s and 1970s, has resurfaced thanks to the dedication of a group of traditional architecture enthusiasts.
This small urban nucleus, belonging to the municipality of Campillo de Ranas, is an outstanding exponent of the so -called black architecture, characteristic of the black peoples of Guadalajara. The uniqueness of its constructions, made with dark slate, adobe, wood and lime, is harmoniously integrate into the natural environment, offering a picture that transports the visitor to past times.
The history of the sidewalk is a reflection of depopulation that affected numerous rural towns in Spain. The hard living conditions and lack of opportunities led to the exodus of its inhabitants, leaving behind homes and traditions. In 1972, the village was expropriated by the Institute for the Conservation of Nature (ICONA) with the purpose of reforesting the area, which implied the demolition of its buildings.
However, in 1976, a group of young people sensitized with the loss of architectural heritage prevented the destruction of the sidewalk. A year later, they founded the La Vereda Cultural Association, obtaining the concession of the people for rehabilitation and reconstruction.
Since then, the association has worked on the recovery of buildings, using traditional techniques and materials, without resorting to modern machinery. This effort has allowed the people to retain its original essence, lacking asphalting, electricity and sanitation, which offers an authentic experience to those who visit it.
The houses are heated with bonfires, the lighting comes from quinqués and candles, and the running water, installed by the association itself, requires constant maintenance.
The reconstruction of a forgotten heritage
The work of the La Vereda Cultural Association transcends the mere architectural reconstruction. Traditions such as the elaboration of ceramics around and cooking in oven have been recovered, the manufacture of enea chairs and the production of jams with local fruits.
In addition, ovens, tinades, cochiqueras, streets, walls and orchards have been restored, thus preserving the way of life of the former settlers. The people, surrounded by a privileged natural environment, offers the opportunity to see native fauna, becoming a shelter for those who seek to disconnect from the urban bustle.
The village church is one of the buildings that has been subject to restoration. This temple, representative of the Popular Rural Romanesque, is erected as a testimony of the history and faith of its former inhabitants.
The recovery of this and other buildings has been possible thanks to the collective effort of the members of the association and volunteers who, attracted by the project, have contributed their work and knowledge in the rehabilitation work.
A community and future management model
The La Vereda Cultural Association has established a participatory and open management model, inviting all those interested in the reconstruction and maintenance of the people to join the project.
This approach has allowed the incorporation of partners from various locations, such as Campillo de Ranas, Alcalá de Henares, Azuqueca, Galapagos and even Talavera de la Reina. The diversity of its members has enriched the project, contributing different perspectives and skills that have contributed to the success of the initiative.
The rehabilitation of the path has not only meant the recovery of a unique architectural set, but also the revitalization of a community and the preservation of a traditional way of life. Cultural activities and workshops organized by the Association encourage the transmission of artisanal knowledge and skills, ensuring that local traditions last over time.
In addition, the celebration of annual festivities has reinforced ties between the partners and has attracted the attention of visitors and volunteers from neighboring towns, increasing interest in the conservation of rural heritage.
The case of the path is an inspiring example of how the citizen initiative can reverse processes of abandonment and deterioration of cultural heritage. The dedication and commitment of the La Vereda Cultural Association have achieved not only the physical recovery of the people, but also the reactivation of their social and cultural life.
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