El Molino del Sol is built over the water from the historic Presa Cerrajera, a 40 km irrigation canal that draws water from the river Órbigo and returns it further south. Medieval records trace its construction to the 14th century, with the project linked to the Cathedral Chapter of Astorga.
The building itself is a restored flour mill set directly over the Presa Cerrajera. The previous owners undertook an extensive restoration to preserve the mill character—stone arches over the water, the library under the timber roof, gardens and shared spaces—while adapting it for rural hospitality. Local descriptions highlight six rooms, a library, garden and barbecue, and the unique setting “sobre el cauce de la histórica Presa Cerrajera”.
Local tradition tells a Moorish love story: Alíatar, son of a local governor on the Órbigo, sought the hand of Zaida. Her father challenged him to make the waters pass before his door—an impossible task unless a canal were built. With the help of surveyors and villagers a watercourse was laid, and when the water finally flowed, the wedding was celebrated. The canal’s old name, Abencerrajera, is said to honour Alíatar’s lineage.
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