El Cordel Spring

A perfect example of the union between regionalist architecture and nature, where the mineral water from the mountains is captured and protected in a unique pavilion from the early 20th century.

Location and Historical Connection

The Fuente de El Cordel is located in a strategic enclave within the municipality of Villaharta, going up the old N-432 road towards the Cuesta de la Matanza. Its name and location are closely linked to the Cañada Real Soriana, the great transhumance route that crosses the area.

Although it is a small spring, its value is incalculable as a key piece of the Fuente Agria hydrogeological system. Unlike other springs that flow wildly, El Cordel represents the “domesticated version” of the system: its waters are captured and piped to this protected reservoir, allowing for a much more organized human use for decades.

Architecture and Landscape

The most prominent feature of this site is its hexagonal pavilion. Built in the early 20th century in a regionalist style, it is made entirely of exposed brick and covered by an elegant ribbed vault. Inside, a small spout pours water into a basin excavated directly into the ground.

The entire surroundings of the spring, despite the intricate terrain, are clean, cleared, and very well preserved, with elements such as trash cans to maintain respect for this picturesque natural corner.

The Secret of its Waters

The waters of El Cordel share the deep geological origin of the Carboniferous fractures, just like the rest of the spa’s springs. It is mainly supplied by the nearby Fuente de La Belleza.

Being a ferruginous and bicarbonate water, the contact of iron with oxygen gives a characteristic and striking reddish color to the stones and the basin. Historically, these waters have been consumed for their medicinal and therapeutic properties, being the main attraction of the old Fuente Agria Spa during its golden age.