· 5 min read
Atienza Christmas is worth the cold. The village turns into a Living Nativity, the walled old town lights up and on 5 January the Three Kings enter through the cobbled streets.
5 January Living Nativity
On the night of 5 January, Atienza stages a Living Nativity using its natural setting: arcaded squares, porches, heraldic houses and medieval streets become the scenery. Walk the walled old town between scenes with costumed locals.
Three Kings Parade
After the Living Nativity, the Three Kings Parade goes through the old town with the Kings handing out sweets and stopping at the Nativity.
Cochino de San Antón · 17 January
On 17 January, San Antón Abad gathers the village around one of the most rooted traditions of Castilian winter.
Snow-covered Atienza: the castle under snow
At 1,169 metres of altitude, Atienza snows several times a year. Seeing the castle covered in white is one of the year's spectacles. The access road may have ice: check before driving up.
Where to eat and sleep at Christmas
Village restaurants open with festive menus. Roast lamb, gallina en pepitoria and traditional sweets are the standard. Book lodging in advance: the village fills up around Three Kings.
