Peña de Francia
Peña de Francia, a prominent mountain in the Salamanca province in Spain, commands an elevation of approximately 1,723 meters above sea level. The blend of natural beauty, religious significance, and the feeling of being “above the clouds” makes it a truly unique and awe-inspiring destination. It attracts pilgrims and tourists from Spain and beyond.
Sanctuary of the Virgin of Peña de Francia
At the summit of the Peña de Francia is a famous sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary, specifically Our Lady of Peña de Francia. The complex comprises several chapels, a church, a convent, a sacristy, a hostel and the Pozo Verde (green well). The architecture combines Gothic and Romanesque styles and is marked by its austere yet majestic design.
The sanctuary has been a pilgrimage site for centuries and is central to the spiritual identity of the region. It is closely tied to the legend of Simon Vela, a Frenchman who is said to have discovered the statue of the Virgin Mary after a divine vision in the 15th century.
The venerated statue of the Virgin of Peña de Francia is revered as a guardian of the region.
The Church
The church is Gothic in style and dates back to the middle of the XV century. It consists of three naves, separated from each other by four columns, two by each lateral nave and three arches respectively. Its footprint is approximately 26.5 m long and 18 m wide. The choir at the back of the church is a later addition.
The bell tower dates from 1767 (according to an inscription on the coat of arms of the Dominican order carved in it). It is square in cross-section and of ashlar stone construction. It has four open semicircular arches at the top (one on each side) for the bells.
Pozo Verde
The Pozo Verde (green well) dates back to the 15 century and is essentially a tank that collects snow meltwater to provide the convent with a backup water supply. It is so called because a green moss grows on the ceiling above the well and reflects in the water, giving it a greenish colour. The well is no longer used as a water supply.
The natural beauty of the Sierra de Francia
Several viewpoints at the sanctuary offer breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, plains, and mountain ranges, making it a popular spot for visitors. To the north, you can see the entire plain of the Campo Charro, the Sierra de Tamames to the east and the Gabriel y Galán reservoir to the south.
Peña de Francia is part of the Las Batuecas-Sierra de Francia Natural Park, a protected area known for its biodiversity, lush forests, and picturesque landscapes. The park is home to numerous trails for hiking and exploring, where visitors can spot wildlife, including ibex, deer, and a variety of bird species.
How I took the Photos
I shot all the photographs digitally with a Nikon Z6 camera and Nikkor 35-105mm 1:3.5-4.5 vintage lens. I then converted all the photos to black and white and edited them in Capture One to achieve a film-like look.
