Spain is a nation with vast heritage, where every corner conceals a story, and each street reveals a tradition. One such captivating spot is Fresnedillas de la Oliva, situated in the majestic Sierra Oeste de Madrid, just 50 minutes from the capital.
An open-air gallery: the “Casas con Vida” route
Strolling through the streets of Fresnedillas de la Oliva, you’ll feel as if you’re within an open-air gallery. The facades of its homes display 86 masterful paintings located on doors and windows. This open-sky exhibition has transformed the town’s streets into a unique museum that blends the rich local tradition with contemporary art expressions.
The inspiration behind these pieces comes from Elena Parlange, a gifted Fine Arts graduate and graphic designer with over two decades of experience. The works depict ancient trades, pets, and everyday scenes transporting us to the village’s past. This initiative began in 2014 when the Town Hall decided to rejuvenate and beautify the abandoned houses of the old town. Parlange’s talent not only adorned the facades but also instilled life and color to the streets.
The artistic journey
For those keen to explore every nook, the “Casas con Vida” Route offers a defined route that will take you from Plaza de la Constitución, where the grand mural of La Vaquilla awaits, passing through various snapshots of daily life, until reaching the Bakery. This evokes times when the scent of freshly baked bread filled the streets. It’s a walk full of surprises, where even the most concealed places shelter genuine artistic gems waiting to be discovered.
Lunar museum: a space adventure
Despite its traditional appearance, Fresnedillas de la Oliva holds connections to outer space. Don’t miss the Lunar Museum, a tribute to those who, from the Fresnedillas Space Station, contributed to NASA’s Apollo missions’ success. A space dedicated to promoting planetary sciences and space exploration. It’s particularly appealing to the young ones, so if traveling with children, this is a must-visit spot.
How to get there?
Reaching Fresnedillas de la Oliva from Madrid is straightforward. If you choose to drive, the journey lasts about 50 minutes. Take the A-6 towards La Coruña. Then, take exit 42 and continue on M-503, M-508, and M-512 until you reach Fresnedillas de la Oliva.
If public transport is your preference, daily buses from the Moncloa Interchange in Madrid will take you directly to the village’s heart. Check timetables and frequencies to plan your journey.
Practical tips
To make the most of your visit:
- Download the route map from casasconvida.com or request it at the village’s tourist office.
- If traveling with children, there’s a clue game available online or at the tourist office that will make the visit a true adventure.
- Plan your visit to the Lunar Museum on weekends from 11 am to 2 pm. Entrance has a nominal fee, and scheduled activities are usually of interest.
- Explore the Civil War bunkers, a testament to the place’s historical past.
Fresnedillas de la Oliva is a culmination of stories, art, and nature. It’s an invitation to wander its streets and discover, in every corner, a piece of Spain’s rich cultural tapestry. Ready for the adventure? See you in Fresnedillas!
