Spain is not typically known for its frigid temperatures, but extremely cold temperatures have been documented in several regions of the country during the winter months. But if we had to point out the coldest town in Spain would Molina de Aragon (Guadalajara).
In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know about the coldest town in Spain and its characteristics.
The coldest town in Spain
Although there are regions in Spain that experience even colder temperatures, it's worth noting that inhabited areas generally experience lower temperatures during the winter season. Based on the data provided by the official network, it can be deduced that (Guadalajara) It holds the distinction of being the coldest town in Spain.
Located in the northeast of the province of Guadalajara, at an altitude of approximately 1060 meters, is Molina de Aragón. This charming town is nestled within the renowned "Cold Triangle," one of its key points. This unique region encompasses Molina de Aragón, along with the Aragonese towns of Teruel and Calamocha, which is also known for its low temperatures.
In our country, the month of January is known for its frigid temperatures, and in this particular municipality, the weather usually reaches icy levels. On average, The minimum temperatures this month are around -3,5ºC, while snowfall adorns the town for approximately four days. Frost is frequent, occurring approximately 4 of the 24 days, representing almost 31% of the month. During the day, temperatures rarely exceed 80°C due to its altitude.
In this municipality it is common for frosts to occur in December, since The minimum temperature during this month constantly falls below -2ºC. Additionally, it is typical to see snowfall for approximately two days in the last month of the year. Proof of this is that December 2001 holds the record for the coldest month ever recorded in this town, with average minimum temperatures reaching -11ºC.
Temperatures recorded in the coldest town in Spain
During the winter of 1952, specifically on January 28, Molina de Aragón experienced an extremely low temperature of -28,2ºC. Although this town is known for its cold climate, it is worth noting that high temperatures can also be observed during the summer months. In fact, In August 1987, the mercury soared to a scorching 38ºC during the day.
While it may be considered the coldest town in Spain, mainly due to its exceptionally cold January lows, it's worth noting that there are other towns where the mercury has plummeted even further. Cantalojas, another town in Guadalajara, located approximately 1.300 meters above sea level and bordering the Hayedo de Tejeda Negra, It has experienced specific temperatures that drop below -20ºC, even appearing frost during the summer months. Similarly, Zafrilla in Cuenca is known for its icy climate and frequent frosts, making it a popular spot for cold-weather lovers.
Let's not overlook the lowest minimum temperature officially recorded, which occurred in 1956 at Lake Estangento in the Lleida Pyrenees. The temperature fell to -32°C, and it's possible that in the highest regions it even dropped to -50°C, highlighting Spain's climatic diversity.
In the region of Castilla y León there are towns known for their extreme cold. One of those cities is Villaceid in León, where frosts are common throughout the year, with approximately 200 frosty mornings a year. Another town in the Sanabria area, Santa Eulalia del Río Negro in Zamora, is also known for its exceptionally frigid temperatures.
What to do in Molina de Aragón for tourism
If you want to visit the coldest town in Spain, you'll need activities to keep you busy. To begin your tour, you can explore the imposing Molina de Aragón Castle, an architectural gem dating back to the 10th century that dominates the city. From its walls, you'll enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area. The castle also houses a museum that tells the history of the region, making it a fascinating destination for visitors.
Walking through the narrow cobblestone streets of the old town will immerse you in the medieval atmosphere. Discover the Plaza Mayor, surrounded by historic buildings and bustling with local activity. Here you can sample culinary delights in cozy restaurants serving traditional regional dishes, where traditional cuisine blends with the charm of the place.
If you are a nature lover, You cannot miss the beauty of the Alto Tajo Natural Park, located a few kilometers from Molina de Aragón. This park offers a variety of hiking trails that will take you through breathtaking landscapes, with canyons, waterfalls, and forests that will leave you breathless. You can also spot birds of prey and enjoy the tranquility of the natural surroundings, making it an ideal place for hiking and wildlife watching enthusiasts.
The Cathedral of Santa María de la Asunción is another notable point of interest. Its Gothic architecture will invite you to immerse yourself in the religious history of the region, while its interior houses valuable works of art that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the area.
If you travel in the summer, don't miss the local festivals, featuring music, dance, and traditional celebrations that further showcase the local culture. Events related to extreme weather are also held, attracting tourists interested in learning more about the region. coldest town in Spain and its uniqueness.
Other cold towns in Spain
Burgos
It is one of the coldest provinces in our country. In addition to the cold that plagues this area of Spain every winter, 50 years ago one of the lowest temperatures ever recorded was recorded here: -22°C. This type of phenomenon is also observed in other cold areas of Spain.
Calamocha (Teruel)
Teruel is one of the 10 cities with the coldest average temperatures throughout the year. Specifically, the town of Calamocha, located 884 meters above sea level and 70 kilometers from the capital, experienced the lowest temperature in the history of our country: according to data collected by the National Meteorological Service, the temperature reached -30 degrees, demonstrating the harshness of the climate in this region.
Reinosa (Cantabria)
In the north, there are also cities that make headlines for their cold temperatures, such as Reinosa, which recorded another record low of -24,6°C in 1971. These towns, as the coldest town in Spain, demonstrate the peninsula's climatic diversity.
I hope that with this information you can learn more about the coldest town in Spain and its characteristics.