Sarrión (Teruel): the world capital of black truffles in the heart of Javalambre

In the south of the province of Teruel, in the region of Gúdar-Javalambre, lies Sarrión, a municipality that combines history, nature and an identity so deeply rooted that it has become an international benchmark for a product that marks its life: the black truffle. Known as the world capital of Tuber melanosporum, this town in Teruel offers much more than aroma and flavour; it is a destination where tradition, culture and mountain scenery intertwine to create a unique experience.

Located 981 metres above sea level, Sarrión stands between the slopes of the Sierra de Javalambre and the Mijares river valley. The surrounding area is a mosaic of mountains, holm oak forests and crops, criss-crossed by natural springs and paths that invite you to take a stroll. The main town is complemented by La Escaleruela, a neighbourhood near the spring of the same name, one of the most abundant in Spain.

A town with a thousand-year history

The origins of Sarrión date back to pre-Roman times. At the El Quemao archaeological site, located about five kilometres away, Celtiberian remains have been found that prove human presence more than two thousand years ago. In Roman times, a road linking Bilbilis (near Calatayud) with Saguntum crossed this territory, making Sarrión a crossing point between the interior and the coast.

During the Middle Ages, its strategic position made it a defensive stronghold of the Alto Mijares. Popular tradition even has it that El Cid Campeador passed through these lands on his way to Valencia. After the Christian reconquest in the 13th century, Sarrión became part of the Community of Villages of Teruel, within the sesma del Campo de Sarrión, a medieval administrative district that grouped several villages under the same jurisdiction.

From that fortified past, the Puerta de Teruel, one of the seven gates that gave access to the old walled enclosure, still stands. It is a unique example of Aragonese Gothic architecture, with two semicircular towers flanking a pointed arch. Inside, there is a small chapel dedicated to the Virgin of Pilar, which was built later. This gate, declared a Site of Cultural Interest, is one of the most recognisable symbols of Sarrión and a living testimony to its medieval past.

The memory of the Civil War

The history of Sarrión cannot be told without addressing the impact of the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939), a conflict that left a deep mark and has now been transformed into a notable cultural and tourist resource. Due to its strategic location, the town was the scene of intense fighting and formed part of a key defensive system. To keep the memory of that episode alive, an Interpretation Centre has been created, which explains the war events that took place in the area and the living conditions of the soldiers.

In the surrounding area, the Route of the Defensive Positions allows visitors to walk along 11 kilometres of trenches through the Barranco de la Hoz ravine on the slopes of Javalambre. This itinerary allows travellers to come face to face with history through machine gun nests and shelters that have been restored in accordance with conservation criteria and respect for the environment. This easily accessible itinerary combines history and nature in a moving journey through the traces of the past.

Monumental heritage: faith, stone and memory

The centre of Sarrión is dominated by the parish church of San Pedro y San Pablo, an elegant 17th-century temple built in masonry and stonework. Its Jesuit floor plan and interior decoration with sgraffito make it one of the Baroque jewels of the region. From the outside, its three-section tower stands out, where the white limestone contrasts with the reddish brick in a visual effect that is very characteristic of the Teruel style.

Nearby is the hermitage of La Sangre de Cristo, probably the oldest religious building in the town. It is the original parish church of Sarrión, whose origins date back to the 13th century. Although it has undergone numerous reconstructions—the last one in the 1990s after falling into ruin—it retains its original masonry and ashlar structure, its rectangular floor plan and, above all, a Romanesque pointed doorway with three archivolts that reveals its historical value. It has witnessed centuries of faith, conflict and reconstruction, and remains one of the oldest churches in the province of Teruel.

On the outskirts, in the area known as El Real, stands the chapel of San Roque (below in the photo), dating from the 18th century, with a Latin cross plan and a beautiful entrance porch. Not far away is the chapel of Santa Cruz, surrounded by shaded recreation areas, barbecue facilities and a fountain, which is very popular for pilgrimages and country festivals.

Another notable building is the former convent of San Bartolomé, founded by the Mercedarians at the beginning of the 18th century. It suffered significant damage during the Civil War and was rebuilt by the Directorate-General for Devastated Regions. Today it houses the Casa de Cultura and the Municipal Library, fulfilling a new function in the service of the town.

Among the noble houses in the historic quarter, the 16th-century Casa de los Monterde stands out as an example of Aragonese stately residences. Its masonry façade, large linteled doorway and sober elegance evoke the prosperity that Sarrión enjoyed during the 16th and 17th centuries.

Sarrión, the world capital of black truffles

If there is one thing that defines Sarrión, it is the black truffle (Tuber melanosporum). This underground fungus, with its intense aroma and unmistakable flavour, has made the town a world leader in its production and marketing. The climatic conditions of the area — cold winters, limestone soils and medium altitude — are ideal for its cultivation.

Every December, Sarrión celebrates FITRUF, the International Truffle Fair, which since 2001 has brought together producers, chefs, researchers and food lovers from all over the world. During the fair, there are truffle cooking competitions, truffle hunting with dogs and food tastings, as well as an extensive cultural programme.

The fair not only boosts the local economy, but also consolidates Sarrión’s prestige as a European benchmark in the truffle sector. In fact, the municipality exports black truffles to numerous countries and, together with the French markets, sets the international prices for this coveted product.

For those who wish to delve deeper into this fascinating world, a visit to the Truffle Interpretation Centre: Tuber Universum is a must. This educational space explains the entire process of cultivation, harvesting and marketing, as well as highlighting the natural heritage associated with truffles.

During the festivities, the women’s association and the festival committee prepare truffle dishes for visitors, demonstrating that this fungus is not only a source of wealth, but also an essential part of Sarrión’s cultural identity.

Routes and nature: an environment of springs and mountains

The municipality of Sarrión covers more than 140 km² of natural territory, where crops, holm oak and juniper forests, and mid-mountain areas coexist. Its most emblematic sites are Mas Royo, the Mijares River and the Barranco de la Hoz ravine, all of which are extremely beautiful and perfect for hiking.

On the slopes of Javalambre are well-known springs such as Abricuesta, Enebro and Cautivo, which refresh walkers in summer and frame landscapes where greenery blends with the scent of resin and damp earth.

Another point of natural interest is La Escaleruela, just 5 kilometres from the town. This small neighbourhood, located next to the Mijares River, is a popular recreational area due to its springs, poplar trees and fresh air.

Sarrión is also part of the Vía Verde de Ojos Negros, the longest greenway in Spain, which connects Teruel with Sagunto, following the old mining railway route. Popularly known as the ‘Vía Minera’ (Mining Route), this route follows the old railway line that used to transport iron ore. Although prohibited for motor vehicles, this route is an ideal path for cycling and hiking, connecting Sarrión with Barracas and Teruel, and offering an immersion in the Mediterranean landscape between ravines and forests.

Near the town centre, travellers can stop at the Cubillo fountain or the Old fountain, perfect places to rest and enjoy the sound of water before continuing on their way.

Festivals and traditions in Sarrión

Despite its serious history and the sophistication of its star product, Sarrión is a town with a cheerful spirit, with a festive calendar that runs almost every month of the year. The community, reinforced by the tradition of summer clubs and the work of the festival committee (made up of those who turn 20 and 45), turns celebration into an art form. Throughout the year, numerous events are held that reflect the cheerful and hospitable character of its inhabitants.

Among the most notable is the Trincheras Rock Festival, which takes place in March and combines music, historical memory and nature. In May, on the first weekend around the 3rd, the pilgrimage of the Holy Cross brings together locals and visitors for a day in the countryside full of tradition and conviviality.

Sarrión’s Holy Week, declared of Tourist Interest in Aragon, is one of the most unique in the region. Its protagonist is the ancient Brotherhood of the Blood of Christ, founded in 1500, one of the oldest in Spain. During these days, there are moving processions such as the Pregón or Salidhijas (Good Friday morning), the Santo Entierro (Holy Burial) (at night) and La Soledad (Solitude), which culminates in a solemn miserere in Latin.

In August, the main festivities in honour of the Assumption of the Virgin take place, the most popular on the calendar. Bull runs, heifer runs and the popular toros embolados (bulls with flaming horns) are held as part of one of the most important livestock competitions in the country. Days before, the Cultural and Sports Week enlivens the streets with activities for all ages and the participation of more than 30 local clubs.

The third weekend in September sees the patron saint festivities of the Virgin of Mediavilla, while October and December bring smaller celebrations, including the eagerly awaited International Truffle Fair (FITRUF), the emblem of the municipality.

Explore Teruel

It is just 38 kilometres from Teruel, and the Mudéjar motorway (A-23) or the N-234 national road provide easy access, making it an excellent getaway for those who want to discover the most authentic landscape of Teruel. You can also visit these places in Teruel, if you want to explore the entire region:

• Cantavieja: discover this beautiful medieval village. It is 1 hour and 31 minutes away on the A-1701.
• Calaceite: visit this medieval village, listed as one of the ‘Most Beautiful Villages in Spain’. It is 2½ hours away on the N-420.
• Mirambel: a medieval walled town declared a Historic-Artistic Site. 1 hour and 44 minutes away on the A-1701.
• Peñarroya de Tastavins: medieval village among dinosaurs and mountains. 2 hours and 21 minutes away on the A-1701.
• Castellote: visit this village with its impressive Templar castle. 2 hours away on the N-420.
• Puertomingalvo: another medieval village belonging to the network of ‘The Most Beautiful Villages in Spain’. It is 1 hour and 5 minutes away on the A-1701.
• Monroyo: medieval village with many hiking trails. 2 hours and 14 minutes away on the A-1701.

If you have time, you can also visit the Sierra de Javalambre mountains, with their peaks of La Muela (1,455 m) and La Creventada (1,408 m), or visit nearby villages such as Mora de Rubielos or La Puebla de Valverde.

Practical tips for your visit

• Location: 37 km from Teruel and 108 km from Valencia, with excellent transport links via the A-23 motorway.
• Climate: Cold winters with frequent frosts; mild, pleasant summers.
• Accommodation: Sarrión has rural houses, hostels and small hotels, ideal for a gastronomic or mountain getaway.
• Gastronomy: In addition to truffles, game stews, artisan sausages and traditional pastries are also noteworthy.
• Best time to visit: December (FITRUF) or spring-summer to enjoy the nature trails.

Sarrión, the soul of truffles and history

Sarrión is much more than just a dot on the map in southern Teruel. It is a place where time seems to pass at the pace of the countryside and its traditions. Among its cobbled streets and the scent of damp earth lies the history of a town that has managed to reinvent itself, transforming from a medieval stronghold to the world capital of truffles.

To walk through Sarrión is to travel through centuries of history and nature, to discover the flavour of a product that has conquered the palates of the world and to enjoy the sincere hospitality of its residents. A town that has managed to honour its past while cultivating a prosperous future, proving that true wealth is sometimes found waiting patiently, hidden underground.

Visit it at your leisure, savour its cuisine, explore its fountains and let yourself be carried away by the unmistakable scent of black truffles. Sarrión awaits you, nestled between mountains and aromas, in the heart of Javalambre.

Photo Credits

Below are the photo credits in order of appearance. Royalty-free photos will not be listed below:

• Cover Image: Juan Emilio Prades Bel, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Fran Ara, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Fran Ara, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• MiguelAlanCS, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Juan Carlos Leguey, via turismogudarjavalambre.com
• Juan Emilio Prades Bel, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Fran Ara, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Juan Emilio Prades Bel, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Foro-ciudad.com, via Pinterest
• Véronique PAGNIER, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Classiccardinal, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Marianne Casamance, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Juan Emilio Prades Bel, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• disfrutaenfamilia, via disfrutaenfamilia.com
• Luiyo, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Juan Emilio Prades Bel, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Turismo de Aragón, via turismodearagon.com
• Turismo de Aragón, via turismodearagon.com
• zejijunto, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
• Juan Emilio Prades Bel, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons