From Earth to the Moon without leaving the Sierra Oeste of Madrid
The article highlights a gastronomic route in Sierra Oeste de Madrid, featuring historical and cultural landmarks including the Lunar Museum of Fresnedillas and its significance during the Apollo 11 mission.
The article delves into a unique gastronomic route in the Sierra Oeste region of Madrid, which has recently been added to Spain's Network of Gastronomic Towns. This route offers a combination of historical sites and local culinary experiences, showcasing treasures such as the ancient monastery of Pelayos, a garnacha vermouth, a Civil War bunker, and the extraordinary Lunar Museum in Fresnedillas. The inclusion of this comarca in a wider gastronomic initiative emphasizes the region's cultural richness and culinary potential.
Fresnedillas de la Oliva holds a special place in the history of space exploration. It is notable for being the first place on Earth to receive a photo of our planet captured from the Moon. This event occurred back in 1968 when the town, then home to fewer than 500 residents, was chosen by NASA to install a crucial Cassegrain-type parabolic antenna. Later, on July 20, 1969, all communications with the Lunar Module Eagle of the Apollo 11 mission, including Neil Armstrong's iconic words, were relayed through this station. The article reflects on how these historical moments have contributed to the identity of the town and shaped its present-day significance.
In addition to its historical ties to space missions, the gastronomic route also aims to enhance local tourism and appreciation for both the culinary arts and the history of space exploration. With its combination of delicious local food and rich historical narratives, the Sierra Oeste region seeks to attract visitors who are both food lovers and history buffs, thereby enriching its economy and fostering a sense of community pride.