Few places treasure as much history and beauty as the gracious, monastic town of Lerma.Walking through its streets is like stepping into a chapter of Spain’s Golden Age.
At the dawn of the 17th century, the poweful Duke of Lerma transformed the village in his own image, building a refined court from which to serve and entertain his king. His vision shaped Lerma into a masterpiece of classical architecture and noble ambition.
Today, the town’s legacy lives on its six cloistered convents, the Collegiate Church of San Pedro, the majestic ducal Palace, its grand main square, ans the stunning Viewpoint of the Arches. These landmarks whisper stories of the past, immersing visitors in the rich tapestry of Spain’s royal and religious history.
Lerma also inspired the soul of the great poet José Zorrilla, a native of Valladolid. Sent to the town by his father to work the vineyards, he instead discovered love and literature. “Catalina was the name of the young giirl from Madrid i fell in love with, who awakened in me the deepest feelings of youthful love”, he wrote. From thoe early emotions and experiences in Lerma he wrote his most iconic work, Don Juan Tenorio, one of the classics os Spanish literature.