Deep in the province of Castellón, far from the bustling beaches, nestled among mountains and olive groves, lies a village where time seems to have stood still. Here, history and legend intertwine in every stone, creating a unique atmosphere. Its steep, cobbled streets, seamlessly blending with the terrain, beckon you to wander and discover a heritage carefully preserved through the centuries. Surrounded by almond orchards, this place is untouched by haste and leaves a lasting impression on every traveler—not only for its beauty, but for its vibrant living traditions.
This is Vilafamés, one of the most picturesque villages in Castellón and a true gem of cultural tourism in the Valencian Community. Officially recognized as a Historic-Artistic Site, this municipality captivates with its old town, which is divided into two distinct areas. The upper section is a labyrinth of narrow streets with irregular layouts, preserving a medieval spirit, while the lower part is more spacious and modern, adapted to the terrain. A stroll through Vilafamés is a journey through the ages, from its Muslim roots to Christian flourishing, surrounded by landscapes that have inspired many artists with their light and the unique fusion of architecture and nature.
One of the most photographed and iconic landmarks in Vilafamés is the Roca Grossa—an enormous boulder that seems to defy the laws of gravity. According to local legend, if you touch the stone and make three wishes, at least one of them is bound to come true. This ritual turns an ordinary visit into an almost mystical experience. Nearby stands the Vilafamés Castle, perched directly on the rock and considered the town’s main monument. Its history dates back to the 14th century, but it bears traces of the Roman, Muslim, and Christian eras. The preserved fragments of walls and defensive structures are a vivid reminder of the site’s former strategic importance.
The historical route continues at the Church of the Blood (Iglesia de la Sangre), built on the ruins of ancient Muslim structures, and at the parish church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary (Iglesia Parroquial de la Asunción de Nuestra Señora). The latter is a striking example of Baroque architecture and houses a magnificent 17th-century altar. But Vilafamés is more than a preserved past. The local cultural scene is vibrant, centered around the Vicente Aguilera Cerni Museum of Contemporary Art. Located in a 15th-century Gothic palace, the museum features works by renowned artists from around the world. In addition, the surrounding area is rich in archaeological sites and cave paintings, while local gastronomy and wines labeled IGP ‘Vins de les Terres de Castelló’ make any visit even more rewarding. This is a place where landscape, culture, and tradition come together as one.
RUSSPAIN reference: Vilafamés attracts lovers of authentic Spain for good reason. Since 2015, the village has been a member of the prestigious association “Los Pueblos Más Bonitos de España” (The Most Beautiful Villages of Spain). This organization brings together towns that have met strict criteria for preserving architectural and cultural heritage, cleanliness, care for green spaces, and a harmonious appearance. Being included on this list confirms Vilafamés’s exceptional value and its commitment to preserving its unique identity for future generations.
