Traveling through the northern regions of Spain invariably brings vivid discoveries, and one of the most memorable awaits in the very heart of the wine-producing province of Rioja. Amid rolling hills draped in vineyards—whose hues shift with every season—stands a settlement with a truly medieval spirit. Here, cobblestone streets and corners untouched by time seem frozen in the past, offering a perfect haven for lovers of history, fine drinks, and the unforgettable landscapes of the Ebro River valley.
This refers to San Vicente de la Sonsierra, a municipality in La Rioja that has managed to preserve one of the most impressive fortress complexes in the region. Walking along its defensive structures, built at the height of the Middle Ages to protect a strategically important site, is like traveling back several centuries. Today, this historic route is enhanced with modern technology: augmented reality, QR codes, and mobile apps help visitors gain a deeper understanding of every detail of the architectural ensemble. The journey begins at Plaza Mayor, where a self-guided tour starts—combining a physical and digital experience. The special Arkikus-Castillo de San Vicente app allows users to see virtual reconstructions of the fortress across different historical periods. Within the walls stands the parish church of Santa María la Mayor, a 16th-century temple featuring a majestic altarpiece and a 13th-century baptismal font. What makes this site unique is that visitors can not only admire these treasures but also interact with a touch screen that offers detailed insights into the iconography and context of each work.
If there is one thing that defines the essence of San Vicente de la Sonsierra, it is its inseparable bond with the vine. The culture of wine is felt everywhere here. More than a hundred wine cellars carved into the rocks, ancient presses, and numerous small “guardaviñas” huts are scattered across the landscape, like traces of the traditional lifestyle of these lands. This forms a unique ethnographic heritage for all of Spain, where it is still possible to see how locals cultivated grapes centuries ago. The town is surrounded by family-run wineries, many of which welcome guests by appointment. There, you can hear firsthand about the process of creating signature wines, which are increasingly valued on the market, as well as take part in tastings, stroll through the vineyards, or join food and wine pairing workshops.
Outside the urban center, surrounded by vineyards, lies one of Rioja’s most fascinating archaeological sites: Santa María de la Piscina. Here, visitors can explore a Romanesque chapel from the 12th century, considered one of the purest examples of the style in the region. It is surrounded by a medieval necropolis, remains of cave dwellings, and ancient defensive towers. Information panels and QR codes make it easy to tour the site, offering access to an immersive experience with a 360º virtual reconstruction. The lands of Sonsierra also preserve prehistoric traces like a dolmen and a menhir, along with 13 rock-cut hermitages that testify to the spiritual significance of these lands in the Middle Ages. This mosaic of heritage makes the area a unique destination for archaeology and history enthusiasts.
San Vicente de la Sonsierra is located on a hilltop, offering privileged views over the Ebro Valley and an endless sea of vineyards. Viewing platforms scattered throughout the town allow visitors to take in the full splendor of this landscape, especially in autumn when the fields turn shades of red, orange, and gold. One of the most recommended spots is the lookout on the main tower, which provides a breathtaking panorama that captures the essence of Rioja: history, vineyards, and traditions.
