A hiking trail in the northern part of Extremadura can change your idea of what a walk in nature means. Here, among ancient oaks and pastures, lies a place where granite boulders preserve traces of ancient rituals, and every step along the path feels like a journey through time. This route doesn’t require special training, but promises encounters with mysteries that remain unsolved to this day.
The trail begins in the small town of Piedras Albas, from where the path leads deep into the classic Spanish dehesa. Just a few minutes into the walk, you are greeted with a view of a unique archaeological site — a granite rock known as Canchal de los Dos Ojos. Two huge carved niches on its face resemble eyes that watch over the surroundings. This is not just a natural anomaly but a place where history and myth are intertwined.
Archaeological mysteries
The rock and its surrounding area are officially recognized as an archaeological zone and are protected as a cultural heritage site. Traces of settlements dating back to the late Roman and early medieval periods have been found here. Around the rock, stone-carved tombs, ancient cisterns, and man-made recesses used for wine and oil production have survived. All this indicates that the place served not only as a cult site but also as an economic center for centuries.
Particular attention is drawn to the anthropomorphic graves carved directly into the granite. Their shape and positioning still spark debates among researchers. Some believe an eremitic monastery once stood here, while others claim it was a sanctuary tied to local rituals. Traces of channels and recesses in the rock suggest there was once a covered structure, possibly used for ceremonies or solitary living.
A route for everyone
The route is just over five and a half kilometers long, with a minimal elevation change—only about thirty meters. This makes the trail accessible to most people, including families with children and the elderly. The path runs across open terrain, with little shade, so it is recommended to bring a hat and water. Although the archaeological site is located on private land, visitors are welcome provided they treat the environment and monuments with respect.
A journey along this trail is more than just a walk—it’s a chance to uncover mysteries that have been hidden for centuries. There are no crowds of tourists here; the solitude and silence allow you to truly feel the presence of history. For many, this route becomes a revelation: the blend of natural beauty and archaeological discoveries creates a unique impression that is impossible to forget.
A place of power and symbols
Kanchal de los Dos Ojos is not the only example of mystical places in Spain where the past comes alive before your eyes. A recent feature told the story of a medieval castle in Andalusia, whose walls have witnessed passions, betrayal, and bloody drama. This castle has become a real magnet for those seeking not only scenic views but also emotional experiences connected to history. You can learn more about the mysteries and legends surrounding such landmarks in the publication about the drama and secrets of a medieval castle in Jaén.
Returning to the route in Extremadura, it’s worth noting that such places are gaining popularity among those tired of standard tourist trails. Here, you can not only enjoy nature but also feel like an explorer uncovering forgotten pages of history. Every feature of the landscape, every hollow in the rock, forms part of a vast mosaic yet to be pieced together.
Practical information
The trail is well marked and equipped with information panels to help you interpret what you see. The walk takes about an hour and a half at a relaxed pace. The best time to visit is spring or autumn, when the heat won’t interfere with your walk. Keep in mind there is hardly any shelter from the sun along the route, and mobile phone reception may be unreliable.
For those interested not only in nature but also in history, this route is a real discovery. Here you can see how people have adapted the surrounding landscape to their needs over centuries, leaving behind mysterious traces. Visiting Canchal de los Dos Ojos leaves a lasting impression, and photos of this place always pique the curiosity of friends and acquaintances.
The granite rock with two eyes is more than just a natural site; it is a symbol of the multi-layered history of Extremadura. Its mysteries remain unsolved, while the ancient and secluded atmosphere makes this place special for everyone who decides to walk this trail.
Canchal de los Dos Ojos is a unique archaeological site located in the municipality of Alcántara, near the border with Portugal. The rock is known for its two large carved niches that resemble eyes, and numerous traces of human activity, including burials, cisterns, and man-made hollows. The site is recognized as a cultural heritage and is protected by law. It is believed that both religious and utilitarian structures existed here for centuries, and the complex itself remains the subject of ongoing research and debate among archaeologists and historians.
