🖤 Patones de Arriba: The Mystery and Serenity of Madrid's Black Architecture

Muralla de Buitrago de Lozoya

Hidden away and nestled in the Sierra Norte of Madrid, the picturesque village of Patones de Arriba is one of the most unique rural jewels of the Autonomous Community. The most distinctive feature of this place is its astonishing Black Architecture (Arquitectura Negra): its houses, built entirely from the local slate (Pizarra), organically merge with the surrounding mountainous landscape, lending the village a mysterious, rustic, and timeless atmosphere. A stroll through its cobbled alleys is a meditative pleasure, where the silence is only broken by the sound of your steps and the birdsong.

⛰️ A Refuge of Peace and Unique Tradition

The location of Patones de Arriba, formerly hidden and only accessible by a winding path, grants it an atmosphere of seclusion and serenity that makes it unique. This geography protected its identity, which explains why the slate construction technique has been preserved so purely.

• Slate Architecture (Arquitectura de Pizarra): Every corner, every retaining wall, and every roof in the village is a testament to the local building tradition. The dark slate absorbs the sun and makes Patones a living example of vernacular sustainability.

• Patones de Abajo vs. Arriba: It is fundamental to distinguish the two settlements. Modern life is concentrated in Patones de Abajo, while Patones de Arriba (the tourist and cultural destination) has remained pedestrianized and dedicated to restaurants and rural charm.

🍽️ Sierra Gastronomy and Rustic Charm

After the walk and exploration, the local cuisine is the reward. Patones de Arriba features cozy restaurants that offer excellent traditional cuisine of the Madrileño Sierra:

• Specialties: Hearty game dishes (wild boar, deer), wood-oven roasted lamb and kid goat, and grilled meats that will fortify you after the mountain air.

• Atmosphere: The restaurants, often housed in old slate buildings, exude a warm and rustic ambiance, complete with fireplaces and traditional décor, which perfectly complements the cultural experience.

🚶 Hiking and Surrounding Nature

Patones de Arriba is a perfect destination for hiking. You can explore the village's alleys or venture onto the surrounding trails, enjoying spectacular views of the natural environment:

• Popular Routes: There are simple routes that start from Patones de Abajo and lead up to the village, as well as longer routes that explore the Pontón de la Oliva (an old reservoir).

ℹ️ Practical Guide for Visiting Patones de Arriba

• Getting There (Car):

  • Route: The easiest way is via the Autovía A-1 (Burgos Highway) to Exit 50 and then continuing on the M-102.

  • Parking (Crucial): Car access is not permitted in Patones de Arriba. You must park in the designated area in Patones de Abajo (whose parking lots can fill up quickly on weekends) and walk up. The walk takes about 15-20 minutes and is very pleasant.

• Getting There (Bus):

  • Line: Interurban bus line 197 from the Intercambiador de Plaza de Castilla (Madrid) takes you to Patones de Abajo. Service is less frequent than on other routes.

• Best Time to Visit:

  • Spring: Is the best time, when the surrounding vegetation is in its full green splendor.

  • Autumn: With its reddish and ochre tones, it is also an ideal time for a relaxing hike.

  • Weekends: Are the busiest times. If you seek absolute tranquility, visit the village on a weekday.

    
    

Patones de Arriba is not just a village to look at, but one to experience. It is a place to disconnect from the city's frantic pace and immerse yourself in the history, nature, and authenticity of the black architecture.

Are you ready to discover the magic of this corner of slate and mountain?