Langa de Duero (Soria)
In the year 1086, the new geopolitical circumstances led king Alfonso VI to forgive el Cid, with the intention of reinforcing his military strength with the presence of Rodrigo. On his return to Castilla El Cid received in donation seven fortresses with their villages and inhabitants: one of those places was Langa de Duero.
Actually it is very little known about the situation of Langa in the 10th and 11th centuries, but it is assumed that it would be subject to the instability and vicissitudes of its border situation on the Duero line.
What you can see and do in Langa de Duero
The tower of Langa de Duero is the first sight that travellers see as they approach the town. Langa Tower, commonly called the Castle of the Cube, now used for exhibitions, is a stone building about 20m high. The present tower dates from the 14th century, although a Muslim watchtower probably occupied its place previously. It formed part of the vigilance network in the 11th century, as well being a complementary fortification. In the 15th century, Enrique Enríquez, Duke of Medina Sidonia and step-brother of Queen Leonor of Navarre was held there on the orders of King John II.
The tower is the last remnant of the fortification that defended the bridge across the River Douro. Crossing this bridge with its 12 arches and 100m length is to remember a part of our history, in which the river was not only a source of life but also a frontier and a place of conflict between Muslims and Christians.
A gentle stroll through the town will take us to the church of St Michael Archangel, a large construction that still preserves late Gothic architectonic elements, such as its apse.
Langa was designated a Historical-Artistic site in 2007.
Rev.: JGG 16.09.21
Useful information
- Postal Address of the City Council: Calle Real, 15 (42320)
- Phone: 975 353 001
- E-mail: langadeduero@dipsoria.es
- Web: www.langadeduero.net
- Population: 547
- Altitude: 855 m.
Rev. ALC: 16.07.18
