Medinaceli

The preserved village of Medinaceli—literally "city in the sky"—commands exhilarating views from the top of a long, steep ridge. Dominating the skyline is a Roman triumphal arch from the 2nd or 3rd century AD, the only surviving triple archway of this period in Spain (the arch's silhouette is featured on road signs to national monuments throughout the country). The surrounding village, once the seat of one of Spain's most powerful dukes, was virtually abandoned by the end of the 19th century, and if you come here during the week, you can find yourself in a near ghost town. Madrileños have weekend houses here, as do some Americans. The town is archaic and beautiful, with houses overgrown by shrubs and trees, and unpaved lanes into wild countryside.