Villamaderne facts for kids
Villamaderne is a small town in the Basque Country, a region in northern Spain. It is located in a valley called Valdegovia. This area has been a path for travelers for a very long time, connecting the high plains with the sea. Because Villamaderne is close to Salinas de Añana, a place famous for salt, it became part of the old salt trade routes. A small village called Bellogin is also part of Villamaderne.
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How Many People Live Here?
Villamaderne is a very small town. Over the years, its population has slowly become smaller. For example, in 2000, about 45 people lived there. By 2007, the number was around 33 people.
Fun Things to See in Villamaderne
Villamaderne has several interesting old buildings and places to visit.
The Old Parish Church
The main church in Villamaderne is called the Parish Church. It is dedicated to San Millán. This church has many parts that are very old, from a style called Romanesque. You can see these old parts in its two entrances, though one is now closed off.
The church was made bigger a long time ago, which hid some of its original features. But thanks to recent repairs, these old parts have been uncovered again! The most special part of the church is its Romanesque bell gable, which is the upper part of the wall where the bells hang.
The Palace-Tower
One of the most important buildings in Villamaderne is the old Palace-tower. The coolest part of this building is its beautiful arches. These arches create a cozy open hallway. This hallway faces south with four doors and east with three doors, all under lovely arches. The walls of the palace are made from a mix of bricks and stones.
The Old Mill
You can find the old mill by following a path that goes downhill. This path starts near the hermitage, on the other side of the road. The mill is built in a smart spot, right where the river bends. This location helps the river's water power the mill.
The Hermitage of Santa Lucia
The Hermitage of Santa Lucia is a small chapel located right next to the road. It's also close to one of the paths leading into the center of the village. This hermitage looks like many other buildings in the countryside. However, it has a special feature: a small arched entrance that you can walk under.
The White Inn
The White Inn, also known as the Inn of Burguillos, is located near the main national road. There are other inns nearby, like those in Cárcamo. The front walls of the White Inn are built using different materials, including bricks, wood, and stones.
Weather, Plants, and Animals
Villamaderne has a climate that is influenced by the ocean. This means the temperature changes throughout the year. There is a lot of rain all year long, which helps the plants grow and gives Valdegovía its special "feel."
Local Plants
The area around Villamaderne has many types of trees. You can find forests of Scots pine, kermes oak, gall oak, and beech trees. There are also other common plants like bushes, plants that grow on rocks, and plants that like to grow near natural springs and still water.
Local Animals
Many different animals live in this region. The most common mammals you might see are roe deer, wild boar, fox, and hare.
See also
In Spanish: Villamaderne para niños
