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Wise Pilgrim APPMansilla de las Mulas is a solid meseta town with more history and character than the villages that precede it. Large sections of the medieval walls still surround the old quarter, and the town retains the feel of a proper market center — which it was, historically, for the mule trade that gives it its name.
There's a nice swimming spot in the river at the northwest corner of town: cross the small pedestrian bridge toward the campsite (not the road bridge that the camino crosses). The water is refreshing after the exposed meseta walking.
Several albergues, bars, and restaurants provide good services. A small supermarket handles provisions. The old quarter within the walls is compact and worth a wander.
La Virgen de Gracia is celebrated on the second Sunday of September. San Martín on November 11.
Mansilla traces its roots to Roman times. The walls that still encircle most of the town attest to its importance as both a waypoint on the Roman road to León and a market town — mulas (mules) were the primary trade good that passed through here.
Look back when leaving town — the best view of the walls is from the west side. Much of the road between here and Puente de Villarente runs alongside the highway.
