A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Comillas: An Architectural Treasure in the Heart of Cantabria

Comillas is a charming municipality located on the western coast of Cantabria, Spain. Known for its impressive architectural heritage and beautiful natural surroundings, Comillas offers visitors a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

Architectural Heritage

Comillas is famous for its rich architecture, which includes a number of buildings designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí. The most notable of these is El Capricho, a summer villa commissioned by Máximo Díaz de Quijano. With its green and yellow ceramic facade and its east-facing observation tower to catch the first rays of the sun, El Capricho is an impressive example of Gaudí's unique style.

Another highlight is the Sobrellano Palace, a grand neo-Gothic mansion built for the Marquis of Comillas. With its adjacent chapel-mausoleum and exquisite interiors, the Sobrellano Palace is a must-visit for any architecture lover.

The Sobrellano Palace and Gaudí's El Capricho share a very interesting historical and architectural connection. Both were built during the same period and for members of the same influential family, reflecting the wealth and social status of the family at that time.

Both buildings not only share familial ties through their patrons but also exemplify the artistic and cultural flourishing of the era, showcasing two distinct but equally impressive architectural styles. The relationship between the Sobrellano Palace and Gaudí's El Capricho highlights the importance of Comillas as a center of architectural innovation and patronage of the arts in northern Spain during the 19th century.

Natural Surroundings

In addition to its architectural heritage, Comillas is also known for its stunning natural surroundings. The municipality is surrounded by green hills and steep cliffs, and features a beautiful golden sand beach. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and cycling to surfing and sailing.

Historic Center

The historic center of Comillas is another of its great attractions. With its narrow cobblestone streets, period houses, and lively main square, the old town of Comillas is the perfect place to stroll, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy local cuisine.

Pontifical University

The Pontifical University is another of Comillas' iconic buildings. This impressive Gothic-Mudejar style building was built in the late 19th century and served as a seminary until 1967. Today, it can be visited and admired for its beautiful chapel and library, which houses a valuable collection of old books.

Comillas Cemetery

The Comillas cemetery, situated on top of a hill overlooking the sea, is another point of interest. The cemetery is built around the ruins of an old church and features an impressive sculpture of the Exterminating Angel, a work by the Catalan sculptor Josep Llimona.

Gastronomic Products from Comillas

• Bejes-Tresviso Blue Cheese

  This strong-flavored and aromatic cheese is one of the most emblematic products of the region. It is handmade in the Picos de Europa, using cow, sheep, and goat milk. Its texture is creamy and its flavor is intense, with a slight spiciness that gives it its name.

• Cantabria Anchovies

  The anchovies from Cantabria are famous for their quality and flavor. They are caught in the Cantabrian Sea and prepared in a traditional way, cleaned by hand and preserved in olive oil. They are an essential ingredient in many dishes of the region, such as the anchovy and pepper salad.

• Pasiegos Sobaos

  The Pasiegos sobaos are a typical sweet from Cantabria made with butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. They have a fluffy texture and a sweet and buttery flavor. They are perfect for breakfast or a snack, accompanied by a coffee or a glass of milk.

• Mountain Stew

  The mountain stew is a hearty and nutritious dish made with white beans, cabbage, chorizo, blood sausage, and pork meat. It is a traditional dish of Cantabrian cuisine that is usually served in winter to combat the cold.

Sporting Activities in Comillas, Cantabria

Surfing

Comillas boasts one of the best beaches for surfing in Cantabria. Whether you're an experienced surfer or just starting out, you'll find waves for all levels.

Golf

If you like golf, in Comillas you'll find the Rovacías Golf Club. A course with views of the Cantabrian Sea that will allow you to enjoy this sport in a unique setting.

Hiking

The location of Comillas, between the sea and the mountains, makes it an ideal place for hiking. You can explore the coast or venture into the surrounding valleys and mountains.

Cycling

Comillas and its surroundings are perfect for cycling enthusiasts. You can ride along the coast or venture into the mountains for more challenging routes.

Fishing

The coast of Comillas is an ideal place for fishing. You can rent a boat and enjoy a day of fishing in the Cantabrian Sea.

Places near Comillas

If you are in Comillas and wish to explore a bit more, here we present you with some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Santillana del Mar, in Cantabria, is a picturesque medieval village, known as the "town of the three lies". It offers a rich history, impressive architecture and exquisite Cantabrian cuisine, highlighting the pasiegos sobaos and the Cantabria cream cheese.

San Vicente de la Barquera, in Cantabria, Spain, is a charming tourist destination with stunning sea views, rich medieval history and exquisite local cuisine, highlighting fresh seafood and the famous Cantabria cream cheese.