Chozón Museum of Ablanque: how paramera shepherds lived

Shepherd shelters

Juniper chozones (chozones sabineros) exist across the Spanish juniper woodlands of the Alto Tajo and Soria. They were utilized from at least the Middle Ages until the mid-20th century, when the final traditional structures were erected, to shelter shepherds and their livestock from harsh weather.

Where and how they were built

They were constructed on the parameras (high limestone tablelands) in advantageous positions (hills and knolls) with nearby water and grazing pastures, clustered into small seasonal hamlets. Only two local materials were employed: limestone, laid with drystone craftsmanship into circular walls, and rot-resistant Spanish juniper wood (Juniperus thurifera).

Visiting

The museum chozón is accessed along the track leading to mirador del Cerro. To view preserved original structures, visit the chozones de Ablanque and walk the ethnographic route.