Astronomy and Astro-tourism in Sierra de Gata

Astronomy is part of our lives, even if we don't realize it. Ever since mankind populated the planet, we have tried to interpret the rhythm of the stars, and this has helped us to survive as a species. Enjoying an astro-tourism experience in an environment such as the Sierra de Gata will help us understand the relationship we have with the starry skies.
And why choose Sierra de Gata for an astronomical experience?
The night in the Sierra de Gata has a unique magic. It is not for nothing that, as a result of its secular isolation, Sierra de Gata has been able to preserve, in addition to its natural and ethnographic wealth, dark skies worthy of admiration. To contemplate the Milky Way is a spectacle to which a large part of the world's population does not have access. According to the 2016 World Atlas of Pollution, only 1% of the European population lives under unpolluted night skies. In some areas of Spain, and Extremadura in particular, we still enjoy this privilege.
Moreover, the Sierra de Gata has a particular charm. Its green valleys, its oak and chestnut forests, its natural pools, its picturesque villages, and the spontaneity of its people give it a special character. The Sierra de Gata is a real eye-catcher for anyone who visits it. Its attraction is not limited to all that this land has to offer in daylight, as its enchantment increases once the sun goes down and the stars come out.
In Sierra de Gata there are also high-altitude enclaves from where you can contemplate the celestial vault at 360º. One of the most special is Trevejo. This village in the municipality of Villamiel is located at the foot of a castle of the same name. This fortress, built by the Muslims during the Reconquest, was rebuilt in the 15th century and passed through the hands of various monastic orders. Today, its keep and part of the wall still stand the test of time. From the hilltop where it stands, the views are spectacular, both by day and by night. Its surroundings are ideal for astro-tourist activities.
Another emblematic peak in the Sierra de Gata is the Torre de La Almenara in the municipality of Gata. Like Trevejo Castle, La Almenara was first built by the Muslims and then reconquered by Alfonso IX, who placed it in the hands of the Order of Alcántara. This is another high point from which to contemplate the firmament or practice night photography.
Los Pajares is another unique place from which to carry out astronomical activities. On this case, we swap the peaks for pastureland. Located at the foot of Santibáñez el Alto, this enclave is home to one of the few architectural agricultural and livestock farming ensembles preserved in the region. It has been declared an Asset of Cultural Interest due to its ethnographic importance. Its dry-stone buildings amidst green meadows and wild olive trees allow us to discover the rural life of a few decades ago. A unique space where you can enjoy an unparalleled ethnographic and astronomical experience.
El Chorrerón is another spectacular natural site from which to admire the celestial dome. It is also the first Starlight Site in Extremadura. This certification is awarded to areas that not only have good skies but also because they possess unique natural and cultural resources. Another splendid corner of the Sierra de Gata from which to enjoy an unforgettable stellar experience.
Development of Astro-tourism
In addition to emblematic places from which to contemplate the celestial vault, the Sierra de Gata has several companies that offer specialized astro-tourism services. We offer different activities to familiarise the public with astronomy. Also, Trevejo Celeste and Astrogata offer different activities linked to astronomy throughout the year. The former, as its name suggests, is located in Trevejo and organizes evenings featuring legends and stars at the foot of the castle. On the other hand, Astrogata is based in another charming place located to the east of the Sierra: Robledillo de Gata. This village on the banks of the Árrago preserves its authenticity. Its slate, wood, and mud houses, its steep narrow streets, its hidden viewpoints, its small waterfalls, and its exuberant natural environment give it a unique character that makes visitors fall in love with it.