Villalcázar de Sirga

Villalcázar de Sirga is a historic village in Palencia province on the Camino Francés, between Villarmentero de Campos and Carrión de los Condes. For pilgrims, it is a memorable stop just before Carrión, with more history than its small size suggests.

The village is closely linked to the medieval Camino and to the Knights Templar. Its great landmark is the Church of Santa María la Blanca, a large Gothic church that was strongly associated with pilgrimage and royal devotion. The town was once known as Villasirga, and its church became famous enough to be mentioned in medieval Marian songs.

Villalcázar de Sirga has useful pilgrim services, including accommodation, restaurants, cafés, and basic facilities. It is smaller than Carrión de los Condes, but it is a good place for a meal, a rest, or a quieter overnight before reaching the larger town.

The must-see is Santa María la Blanca. It dominates the village and is one of the standout Camino churches in Palencia. There is also a current project to rehabilitate the old Church of San Pedro de Villasirga as a pilgrim albergue and Camino studies centre.