Potes

Potes is a town and municipality in Cantabria, Spain. It is the capital of the Liébana comarca and is located in the Liébana valley at the foot of the Cantabrian Mountains, near the Picos de Europa. The historic center preserves a medieval urban layout, with narrow streets, stone houses and bridges spanning the river that runs through the town.

Geography and landscape form a defining part of Potes. The town sits in a mountainous setting that provides access to natural areas in the Cantabrian range. The surrounding region is known for its scenery, hiking routes and rural heritage, making tourism a key aspect of the local economy.

History and culture are closely tied to the Liébana valley. The nearby Monastery of Santo Toribio de Liébana, founded in the early Middle Ages, is a major religious site and a pilgrimage destination, housing the relic of the True Cross (the Lignum Crucis). Potes itself features a traditional architectural character, with arcades and plazas that reflect its historical development.

Economy and amenities revolve around tourism, agriculture and livestock. Visitors come to explore the monastery, enjoy the landscape of Liébana and use Potes as a base for regional excursions. The town offers restaurants, shops and accommodations typical of Cantabrian towns, aimed at both local visitors and travelers exploring northern Spain.

See also: Santo Toribio de Liébana Monastery; Liébana.