Pruna

A short drive to the fresh water spring near the pueblo of Pruna this morning to refill our bottles and then on to explore more of the village that I last wandered around over five years ago.

 

Pruna has a population of about 3000 people and lies approximately nine kilometres north of Olvera.

 

I parked the car at the northern edge of the village and just strolled around.

 

 

 

 

Originally built in the 16th century but having undergone many restorations since, the "Templo Parroquial de San Antonio Abad" has an unassuming exterior but inside it is beautifully ornate with a stunning altar and magnificent wall and ceiling frescos. Worshippers were inside so it wasn't possible to take any pictures but well worth a look if you are ever in the area.  

The Plaza de la Libertad.

 

 

 

 

A pleasant water feature in the Plaza de España.

The monument to the people of Pruna, who in times of hardship had to leave the village to find work, stands in the park area outside of the Town Hall

The main road through the village.

 

I left Pruna and headed just north of the village to a spot that I knew would offer great panoramic views of Pruna castle and Olvera beyond.

So, a few pictures taken on a lovely 25°C day.

Views from Pruna Castle

Eleven months have passed since I last visited Pruna castle, puffing and panting my way to the top of the 699 metre peak. So on a lovely morning, I once again felt the urge for more physical punishment, although no doubt some would refer to it as exercise.

Well, nothing much has changed, still puffing and panting as I gently and slowly wound my way to the top but worth the effort just to enjoy the fabulous views all around. Here, the fresh water spring at the start of the trek, unfortunately advising that the water is "no potable", not drinkable.

This derelict looking building, according to the plaque below, houses (or once housed) the mechanism to measure seismic activity in the area.

My target.

There are plenty of rest area's on the route - thank goodness!!.

As I mentioned, the views from the top are stunning.

Looking at the nearby pueblo of Pruna.

A hazy Olvera about 8kms away.

Just resting and recuperating.

The winding pathway back down.

One of several viewpoints along the way.

El Castillo del Hierro

Pruna castle - the Iron Castle, here pictured from a previous post, has long been a mission to climb. And today was the day.

Together with friend Dan, we parked the car at the fresh water spring at the bottom of the hill and proceeded to climb upwards on the well laid out path.

There were several benches along the way on which to take a breather and sit and admire the views before arriving at the first viewpoint platform.

The views to Olvera.

Continuing upwards, we came across this picnic area with benches and tables.

Not far to go now. Time to stop for yet another breather.

Above our heads vultures were flying quite low so best not to stop for too long.

The vistas from the top were stunning.

Looking down upon the pueblo of Pruna.

And here, the view north.

Within the last year, the castle has been restored, allowing safe entry into the building and up to the top of the tower.

Looking down upon the olive groves.

For the views alone, the trek up to the top is well worth it. Not being the fittest person in the world, it took me approximately 45 minutes, stopping quite a few times along the way, sitting to admire the wonderful views on several of the many well placed benches along the way.