The romantic comedy ‘Let the Ugly Ones Die’, released in 2010, won viewers over not only with its fresh humor but also with its stunning landscapes, which became full-fledged participants in the story. Director Nacho G. Velilla took the plot away from bustling cities and into the heart of the Spanish countryside, showcasing corners of Spain brimming with authentic charm. Let’s revisit these places and see exactly where this touching love story unfolded.
The centerpiece of the filming was Las Tiesas Altas, a historic estate in the Estarrún Valley, located near the town of Jaca in the Aragonese Pyrenees. More of an agricultural complex than a typical village, this location was perfect for creating the film’s atmosphere. Its stone houses with tiled roofs and a small church have remained untouched, making it possible to recreate the secluded and heartfelt world of the main characters without elaborate sets. Today, few residents remain here, but the doors of the local rural hotel are still open to visitors.
In addition to the main location, the film crew also used other picturesque spots in Aragón, showcasing the region’s natural and cultural wealth. For example, the village of Ansó, often ranked among the most beautiful in Spain, contributed its cobblestone streets, traditional chimneys, and stone houses to the film, lending the story an extra touch of authenticity. Scenes were also shot in the neighboring Hecho Valley, near the ancient Romanesque monastery of San Pedro de Siresa, surrounded by majestic nature.
The city of Jaca served as an important logistical hub for the entire crew, and its iconic landmarks, such as the Romanesque cathedral and the Citadel, can also be spotted in some scenes. Although the primary focus was on the Pyrenees, urban landscapes appear in the film as well. Several scenes were filmed in the regional capital, Zaragoza, particularly in the famous Ciclón passage, as well as in the city of Huesca.
The comarca of Jacetania, where most of the filming took place, offers a wealth of fascinating destinations for travelers. The regional capital, Jaca, is perfect for a leisurely stroll through its historic center. Be sure to visit the 16th-century Citadel and one of Spain’s oldest cathedrals — San Pedro. Nearby lies the San Juan de la Peña monastery, literally nestled beneath a massive rock, making it one of the most enigmatic sites of Spanish Romanesque architecture. Another highlight is the modernist Canfranc railway station, once one of the largest international train stations in Europe. The Echo and Anso valleys, with their traditional architecture, are ideal for hiking in the nature park.
The film centers on Eliseo, an unassuming and insecure man living in a small Pyrenean village. His life takes a turn when Nati returns — a strong-willed woman who, like him, has faced her share of disappointments. Their encounter sets off a chain of amusing and touching events, telling a story about second chances at love. The lead roles are played by Spanish cinema stars: Javier Cámara (Eliseo) and Carmen Machi (Nati), along with Hugo Silva, Ingrid Rubio, and other well-known actors.
