Udías

02Geography

Udías is situated in a hilly region of Cantabria, bordered by Alfoz de Lloredo and Comillas to the north, Valdáliga to the west, and Cabezón de la Sal to the southeast. Despite being part of the Costa Occidental comarca, it does not have a coastline. The area is notable for its caves, attracting speleologists, and its historical significance as an ancient mining zone.

03History

The history of Udías dates back to Roman times, as it was part of a secondary route connecting the Meseta to the Cantabrian coast. In the Middle Ages, it became significant for its ecclesiastical donations and was integrated into the Merindad Mayor of Castilla. Over the centuries, it changed hands among various noble families, including the Mendoza family.

• 943 Evidence of ecclesiastical dominance with donations to the monastery of Santa Juliana.
• 1338 Document of inheritance indicating Udías was under the control of Garci Lasso I de la Vega.
• 1432 Udías came under the power of the Mendoza family.
• 1760 Reform of the General Ordinances of the Province of the Nine Valleys.
• 1822 Division of the valley of Alfoz de Lloredo into separate municipalities.
• 1880 Udías became independent from Ruiloba.
• 1934 Udías requested to join Cabezón de la Sal, but the request was denied.

Udías is a municipality in Cantabria, Spain, known for its hilly landscape and rich historical heritage.

04Demographics and Governance

With a current population of 960, Udías has a local government structure that has evolved over centuries. The municipality is currently led by Fernando Fernández Sampedro from the Popular Party.

Current mayor

Fernando Fernández Sampedro

Political party

PP