In the heart of Castilla y León, far from crowded tourist routes, lies a little-known archaeological site poised to become one of 2026’s major discoveries. These are more than just ruins—it’s an entire complex carved directly into the rock, seemingly floating above the plain. A place steeped in silence and solitude, where faith, asceticism, and traces of medieval life are still palpable in every stone.
This is Cuevas Menudas, a group of caves located in the municipality of Villasabariego in the province of León. Seventeen man-made chambers are currently open to visitors, though historians believe there were originally many more. For a long time, their origins were mistakenly attributed to prehistoric times, but recent research has clarified their history. Experts now date the caves to the 9th–10th centuries and directly link them to the hermit movement of the early Middle Ages. Numerous graffiti in the form of crosses, as well as linear, zoomorphic, and geometric inscriptions, leave no doubt about their Christian purpose and support the theory that these caves once sheltered monks seeking solitude and spiritual enlightenment.
The interiors of these cells impress with their simplicity and austerity. The rooms are modest in size, with height and width rarely exceeding two meters, perfectly reflecting the idea of an individual and austere way of life. Inside, you can see benches carved into the rock, recesses in the floor that likely served as grain storages, and even possible burial sites. Among them stands out one cave that is more spacious—apparently used for communal purposes, such as a dining area. But the most unique feature is a carved equal-armed cross in the rock, which experts believe served as a liturgical space for placing a portable cross of matching dimensions.
Back in 1985, the Cuevas Menudas caves were declared a Site of Cultural Interest in Spain, which saved them from complete destruction. In recent years, conservation efforts have been carried out here to prevent further deterioration and to make the site suitable for tourists. The vaults have been reinforced, safe access paths have been installed, and information panels now share the story of this remarkable site. You can reach the caves via the N-601 road, turning towards the archaeological site of Lancia, from where a well-marked trail begins. Thanks to their historical significance, uniqueness, and close ties to the early Middle Ages, this complex has rightly become one of the main cultural gems of Castilla y León—a must-visit in the coming year.
RUSSPAIN reminds readers that Castilla y León is not only home to historic caves, but it is also the largest autonomous region in Spain and the entire European Union. The region is renowned for its many castles and ancient universities such as the University of Salamanca, founded in 1218, and is part of the famous pilgrimage route, the Way of St James. It is also known for its gastronomy, especially roast suckling lamb (lechazo) and high-quality wines from the valleys of the Duero and Bierzo rivers.
