The Spanish miniseries “The Crystal Cuckoo” has become one of the most talked-about Netflix releases of 2025—and not just for its intricate plot. Viewers were captivated by the stunning locations, which provided a perfect backdrop for the mystical story. The creators, adapting a novel by Javier Castillo, shifted the action from the American heartland to the picturesque corners of northern Spain, filling each scene with historic towns, rural landscapes, and natural beauty.
The main setting of the series is the town of Yescas. Many viewers have already wondered where to find this place on the map of Spain, but they are in for a surprise: Yescas is a creation of the show’s writers. However, it does have a very real-life counterpart that can be visited. This fictional settlement is actually the town of Hervás, located in the province of Cáceres, at the heart of the Ambroz Valley.
The film crew spent several months in the region, transforming it into a dynamic set. Local residents and businesses played an active part in the production, adding authenticity to what viewers see on screen. The well-preserved Jewish quarter of Hervás and its mountainous surroundings became the perfect stand-in for the fictional town where the main character arrives in search of answers to haunting questions.
Other key locations
In addition to Hervás, Bejar, a municipality in the province of Salamanca, served as a key filming location. This spot lent the series a distinctive, almost mystical atmosphere, blending rich heritage, mountainous landscapes, and unique aesthetics. On screen, you can spot the famous chestnut forest El Castañar, woodland trails, the old bullring, and the exterior of the Mateo Hernández museum. Iconic sites such as the Renaissance villa El Bosque also appear in the series, adding visual depth to the story.
What to see in Hervás
Thanks to the success of “Cristal Cuckoo,” Hervás is experiencing a new tourism boom. Fans of the series and travelers alike are flocking here to enjoy a unique blend of history, nature, and tradition. If you visit this town, be sure to explore several must-see spots. First, the Jewish Quarter—one of the best-preserved in Spain—with its narrow streets and traditional wooden houses. Second, the Church of Santa María de Aguas Vivas from the 12th–13th centuries, perched atop a hill and offering panoramic views of the surroundings. It’s also worth visiting the Pérez Comendador-Leroux Museum, dedicated to the local sculptor and his artist wife, and checking out the 17th-century Monastery of San Juan Bautista. The medieval Puente de la Fuente Chiquita bridge over the Ambroz River has been part of the legendary Silver Route for centuries.
Plot and cast
The story of “La Cuckoo de Cristal” centers on Clara Merlo, a young resident doctor whose life is saved by a heart transplant. Driven by a desire to learn more about her donor, she travels to his hometown. What begins as a personal quest quickly turns into a dangerous investigation full of dark secrets. Clara’s arrival coincides with a new mysterious disappearance in a town haunted by tragedy for decades. While the police scramble to make sense of the situation, she finds herself drawn ever deeper into a web of mystery.
The project features a stellar cast of Spanish actors in the leading roles. The role of Clara Merlo is brought to life by Catalina Sopelana. She is joined by Álex García, Itziar Ituño—best known for the series “La Casa de Papel”—Tomás del Estal, Iván Massagué, and Alfons Nieto, all of whom brilliantly embody the characters created by Javier Castillo.
Incidentally, the success of “La Cuckoo de Cristal” underscores Netflix’s strategy of investing in Spanish content. The platform actively funds local projects, from TV series to feature films, attracting both established and emerging talent. These productions not only win over international audiences but also have a notable impact on domestic tourism. Cities and regions that serve as filming locations gain worldwide recognition, drawing thousands of travelers and boosting local economies. This creates a powerful synergy that benefits both the streaming giant and Spain itself.
