Spain Badajoz Cáceres
Transcription
Spain Badajoz Cáceres
Badajoz Cáceres Extremadura Spain CIUDAD RODRIGO 8 km S A L Fundão Penamacor Zarza la Mirabel Torrejoncillo Mayor Ceclavín Serradill Acehuche Portezuelo Piedras Cañaveral Albas L CASTELO BRANCO Emb. de Alcántara II er Santiago de Alcántara Navas del Madroño Brozas G d e T U ra Membrio PARQUE NATUR Bótoa R BADAJOZ O Torrejón el Casar de Monroy Cáceres Arroyo P Sa de la Luz n P Salorino edro CÁCERES 703 521 Valencia Herreruela 644 521 de Alcántara deTorrico Malpartida Aliseda S. Pedro La de Cáceres S. Vicente Emb. de Ib de Alcántara Aldea Salor Torremoch del Cano La Codosera Alburquerque Va Puebla 523 Montánchez Emb. de de Obando Cordobilla 630 El Águi a Alcuéscar de Lácara Almo Villar del Rey PORTALEGRE Elvas Alandroal Olivenza P Reguensos de Monsaraz 10 La Roca CORNALVO de la Sierra La Nava de Santiago Aljucén S. Pedro Emb. de de Mérida Proserpina Montijo Puebla MÉRIDA de la Calzada P Lobón V Talavera Arroyo de la Real Alange S. Serván Solana Torremejía de los Barros La Albuera T I E R R A Almendralejo Palomas DE Redondo 0 630 Garrovillas Talaván Si A Alcántara Cedillo M Plasencia Galisteo Coria 624 A Casares de las Hurdes El Ladrillar L Nuñomoral Vegas de Coria 1367 Sabugal Robledillo Jañona Pinofranqueado Descargamaría S.Martín Casar de Valverde Marchagaz de Trevejo Gata Palomero del Fresno Cadalso Em Acebo Torre de Eljas Palomero Gabrie Hoyos D. Miguel Trevejo Ahigal Pozuelos de Zarzón Emb. de Cilleros Borbollón Moraleja MontehermosoCarcaboso B A RRO S Valverde 432 de Leganés Almendral Sta. Marta Táliga Alconchel Barcarrota M Gu Oliva LA Puebl Re Aceuchal Villalba de los Barros Villafranca 95 de los Barros Fuente del H Maestre Cheles Ribera Higuera 630 Salvatierra del Fresno de Vargas Feria 435 de los Barros Los Santos L Zafra Villanueva de Maimona Valle de P del Fresno Zahinos Matamoros Mourão Valencia del Usagre Jerez de Mombuey N Valencia los Caballeros del Ventoso Oliva de la Bienvenida Fregenal Amareleja Frontera de la Sierra Fuente S. Cristobal Bodonal de Cantos 774 Barrancos de la Sierra 630 Casas de Encinasola Higuera Calera de León Segura Fuent la Real de León Monesterio Cabeza la Vaca 20 30 40 50 Km. CARTOGRAFÍA: GCAR, S.L. Cardenal Silíceo, 35 Tel. 91 416 73 41 - 28002 MADRID - AÑO 2000 1110 Tentudia H U E L V A Santa Olalla de Cala HUELVA 95 km S SEV LLA 71 km SALAMANCA 36 km A N C AV LA 9 km A as Mestas Riomalo Aldeanueva del Camino V Piedrahita Béjar I L A San Martín de Valdeiglesias Burgohondo Baños de Montemayor El Barco de Avila Hervás Sotillo de la Adrada Arenas de Tornavacas San Pedro Jerte del Valle Jarandilla Villanueva 630 El Torno Aldeanueva de la Vera de la Vera Madrigal 110 de la Vera P Losar Valverde Garganta Piornal Cuacos de Yuste de la Vera P la Olla Pasarón Jaráiz Las Ventas de la Vera de la Vera Talayuela de San Julián Talavera de la Reina Malpartida Navalmoral de Plasencia de la Mata Casatejada Oropesa la Emb. de Almaraz Serrejón San Bartolomé de El Puente Emb de las Abiertas Bohonal Valdecañas del Arzobispo Alcaudete de PARQUE NATURAL de Ibor l Rubio MONFRAGÜE la Jara Romangordo Valdelacasa La Estrella Castañar Jaraicejo La Nava de de Tajo Los Navalmorales Deleitosa de Ibor Ricomalillo Torrecillas Navalvillar de la Tiesa de Ibor Santa Marta Roturas 1441 de Magasca Cabañas Navezuelas Puerto de San Vicente 1601 del Castillo P Anchuras Trujillo Berzocaña Villuercas Guadalupe Retuerta de e Garciaz p u a Cumbre Bullaque P l Alía Sta. Cruz d a a Cañamero de la Sierra u bahernando G ha e Logrosán d Zorita Castiblanco ldefuentes a Horcajo de r los Montes r V Valdecaballeros ie Herrera Emb. de S Alcoba García de So a Peloche del Duque Madrigalejo oharín Escurial Fuenlabrada Navalvillar RAL de los Montes Miajadas de Pela Casas de D. Pedro Puebla de 430 Emb. de D. Rodrigo Sta. Amalia Talarrubias Orellana Villanueva Ore lana Tamurejo de la Serena la Vieja Medellín Don Benito La Coronada Puebla de Emb. de la Siruela Alcocer Serena 939 Embalse Saceruela Magacela del Zújar uareña Peñalsordo Campanario de Mérida Quintana Cabeza del S E R E N A de la Serena Castuera Buey la de la Higuera eina Toll road de La Serena Motorway Monterrubio Zalamea de 1 de la Serena National highway la Serena Hornachos 848 Primary regional road MADRID 72 km Á Cepeda mb. de el y Ga án Cabezuela E D O Campillo de Llerena Llera Valencia de las Torres Berlanga Peraleda del Zaucejo Los Blázquez Hinojosa del Duque P Granja de Torrehermosa 432 Llerena Azuaga Reina e del Arco Fuente Obejuna C Ó R D O B A Guadalcanal Villaviciosa de Córdoba Alanís E V I L L A LORA DEL RÍO 41 km Secondary regional road Local road Railway Parador Historic ruins Panoramic view Nature Park Marina Campgrounds Golf course Health spa Airport World Heritage Site CÓRDOBA 2 km SONSECA 49 km C I U D A D R E A L TOLEDO 33 km L MADRID 74 km T O Contents Getting to Know Extremadura 1 A Tour of its Cities Cáceres 8 Plasencia 10 Badajoz 12 Mérida 14 Travel Routes through Extremadura The Three Valleys 16 Los Ibores, Guadalupe and Las Villuecas 19 Sierra de Gata and Las Hurdes 21 The Route of the Conquistadors 23 La Raya 24 Through Lands of Wine and Artisans 27 La Serena, La Siberia and their Reservoirs 29 The Silver Route 31 Leisure and Events 33 Useful Information 36 United Kingdom Dublin London Ireland Paris France Cantabrian Sea Spain Portugal Madrid Cáceres Lisbon Badajoz Mediterranean Sea Extremadura Ceuta Rabat Atlantic Ocean Canary Islands Melilla Morocco Getting to Know Extremadura Cáceres (19,945 km2) and Badajoz (21,657 km2) with 380 municipalities; 218 pertain to Cáceres and 162 to Badajoz. The capital of the Autonomous Community is Mérida. The Land If only one word could be used to define the Autonomous Community of Extremadura, it would be “diversity”. Mediterranean forests and meadows intersperse with artificial lakes and the peneplain of Cáceres. In the north, Sierra de Gata along with the fertile valleys of the Jerte, Ambroz and La Vera contrast sharply with the extensive plains of La Serena in the south. The population density is only 27 inhabitants per square kilometer compared with 75 inhabitants in the rest of Spain. The total population is 1,069,419 of which 405,616 are found in the province of Cáceres and 663,803 in the province of Badajoz. The name Extremadura comes from the Spanish word “extremo” meaning “extreme” or “farthest out”; a word that was used to indicate the frontier lands during the eight centuries of fighting between Christians and Muslims while Spain was under Islamic rule. Its limits extend to the region of Castilla y León in the north and south to Andalusia, to the east lies Castilla-La Mancha and to the west Portugal. Extremadura has an area of 41,602 square kilometers. It is the fifth largest Autonomous Community in Spain and contains eight percent of the national territory. It is divided into two provinces: Jerte Valley 1 Temple of Diana in Mérida between the ocean and the region. Winters are relatively mild and summers are very hot. The first thing that surprises most travelers is the fact that Extremadura is often mountainous and has an abundance of water. The main rivers, the Tajo (Tagus) and the Guadiana, cut through the region from east to west, and various mountain ranges run through it. In the north lie the Central mountains, in the south, the foothills of Sierra Morena, and in the east and center of the region, the foothills of the Montes de Toledo. This has given rise to a land of contrasts where elevations range from 130 to 2,400 meters. The network of roads has two main axes: east-west and northsouth. The first, the National V motorway joining Madrid with Lisbon traverses Extremadura; the second is formed by the National N-630 linking the lands of Upper Extremadura with those in the southern part and is being converted into a motorway. The rest of the network of roads is good and provides access to all parts of the region, including the most remote. The railway network consists of an axis crossing both of the provinces: CáceresMadrid, Cáceres-Mérida, MéridaZafra line. Badajoz has an airport with regular flights to Madrid and Barcelona. Extremadura has a Mediterranean climate modified by continental and oceanic influences. It is more humid and pleasant than the rest of the plateau due to the absence of natural obstacles 2 History the Andalusian battlefields. It was in these lands as a result of the battle of Albuera that Ferdinand and Isabella secured the throne. The existence of prehistoric settlements in Extremadura is manifest in the caves of Maltravieso (Cáceres), Monfragüe, Villuercas, Alange, and by the numerous dolmen of Valencia de Alcántara and the notable one in Lácara. After the Christian Reconquest of Granada and the return of Columbus from America, a significant number of noblemen, friars and adventurers embarked upon the challenge and colonization of America, so that their names and those of their hometowns became a part of world history. Later came the Tartessians, Celts and Romans; these latter having the greatest influence with the founding in 25 B.C. of Emérita Augusta (Mérida), capital of the Roman province of Lusitania. With the arrival of the Alans in the 5th century, the splendor of Rome was extinguished. Years later, Mérida fell under the rule of the Visigoth kingdom of Eurico. After occupation by the Moors and when the Reconquest of Christian Spain by Ferdinand II was finally completed, Extremadura emerged with its present name existing as a single entity until 1833 when it was divided in two administratively. The three Extremaduran dioceses: Badajoz, Coria and Plasencia, as well as the religious military orders of the Knights of Alcántara and Santiago, originated in the Middle Ages. On February 25, 1983 the Statute of Autonomy of Extremadura was approved by an organic act. The Statute sets forth the responsibilities of the Community and the necessary institutions: the Assembly as the legislative body, the Junta and the Presidency of the Community as the executive body. Palace of the Golfines de Abajo in Cáceres Extremadura cooperated zealously with the Catholic monarchs, Ferdinand II of Aragón and Isabella I of Castile, in the fight against the Moors in 3 Plasencia’s Cathedral However, the chief constructions were made during the Roman period. The largest number of them are concentrated in Mérida: a Roman theater, amphitheater, Temple of Diana and many more to which the artifacts exhibited at the National Museum of Roman Art must also be added. Other structures from the same period are the Roman bridge in Alcántara, the Arch of Cáparra and Regina Theater. Artistic Heritage Extremadura has one of the most important artistic heritages in Spain, a true reflection of all the peoples who have passed through it. The first inhabitants left megalithic structures, such as the ones found in Valencia de Alcántara and the Valley of the Guadiana, near Mérida, as well as cave paintings in Maltravieso cave in Cáceres and verracos (ancient stone carvings of bulls or boars) in Upper Extremadura. Cloister in the Monastery of Guadalupe From the Visigoth period only the ruins of some basilicas remain in Trujillo, Alcuéscar, Brozas and Burguillos del Cerro. Much more important are the vestiges left by the Moors. These were mainly constructions of a military or defensive nature. Splendid examples can be found in a good portion of the walled circuit of Cáceres, the Alcazaba fortress of Badajoz, and the Moorish walls built by the Almohads in Galisteo. The scant number of works of Romanesque art are found north of Cáceres. A good example is the Old Cathedral of Plasencia. After the Reconquest, Natural Heritage Gothic art predominated in Extremadura. The Cathedrals of Plasencia, Coria and Badajoz and the Monasteries of Yuste and Guadalupe are noteworthy. A total of 54 nature reserves are scattered throughout the region of Extremadura forming the most interesting and numerous assemblage in Europe. The excellent economic situation that emerged as a result of the discovery of America was the driving force behind the development of Renaissance art in the numerous civil, religious and military constructions. The Renaissance was undeniably the period of maximum splendor in the architecture of Extremadura, with around 200 buildings declared of Cultural Interest. Finally, the towns of Jerez de los Caballeros and Guadalupe assemble the greatest number of baroque works of art. The artist Churriguera left his distinctive baroque stamp on the tower of the Cathedral of Coria, the Palace of the Marqués de la Conquista de Trujillo and the sacristy of the Monastery of Guadalupe. First, there are the Extremaduran wetlands vertebrated by the waters of the Tajo, with the reservoirs of Valedcañas, Torrejón, Alcántara, Borbollón, Gabriel and Galán and Salor; and the Guadiana with the damns of Cíjara, Orellana, La Serena, Zuja and Alange. Alcántara Reservoir Extremadura has likewise been the birthplace of famous artists, including Francisco de Zurbarán, Felipe Checa, Eugencio Hermoso, Luis de Morales, Juan Barjola and Eduardo Naranjo, among others. A considerable number of museums can be found in the two cities, of Cáceres and Guadalupe, as well as the rest of the territory. Guadalupe’s monastery and the old quarter of Cáceres have been declared World Heritage Sites. Next are the Extremaduran steppe lands, consisting of pasturelands and farmlands, giving rise to the characteristic Extremaduran plains, a refuge of great importance for the bustard and other steppe species. The Llanos de Cáceres – an extensive plateau of slate and granite – and the areas of La Serena, La Campiña Sur and the Llanos del Guadiana Internacional are good examples. 5 Thirdly, there are the green lands of Extremadura where forests, thickets and meadows form natural vegetation in which the nature parks of Monfragüe and Cornalvo are of special interest. Monfragüe nature park, which extends over an area of 18,000 hectares, shelters the most important examples of flora and fauna of the ancient Mediterranean forests. In Monfragüe, the skies are dotted with tawny vultures, black storks, golden eagles, peregrine falcons and Egyptian vultures. Fox, wildcats, badgers and especially lynx make their home in the forests. The flora consists of cork oak, holm oak, juniper and heather, as well as the typical rich vegetation of the river banks, such as willows and ash trees. Cornalvo, with an area of 10,750 hectares, is noted for its groves of holm and cork oak, as well as fauna which includes the black stork and imperial eagle, otter, wildcat, rabbit and to a lesser degree, lynx. Countryside near Alburquerque Other nature areas that must be named are: the region of La Vera, the Jerte and Ambroz valleys and the Sierra de Gata, Las Villuercas, the Sierra de San Pedro, carpeted with cork oak and dense thickets; and in the province of Badajoz, Hornachos, Jerez de los Caballeros and Tentudía. Meriting special mention are the unusually large number of storks which form part of the Extremaduran landscape making their nests in some unlikely places – bell towers, rooftops, traffic lights, electrical towers and greeting travelers by clashing their beaks together. The more timid and elusive black stork takes refuge in the high cliffs of the nature reserves at Monfragüe and Cornalvo. Monfragüe Nature Park A Tour of its Cities Cáceres Cáceres experienced its period of greatest splendor under the reign of the Catholic monarchs when the city, as well as other towns in the province, played an important role in the discovery of the New World. The city is divided into a modern and an old quarter. Our attention is first drawn to Old Cáceres, where we find an assemblage of monuments without equal in Spain. A living artistic relic, Cáceres has been bestowed with the title of World Heritage City, considered the third monumental ensemble in Europe. The finely preserved stone mansions and palaces are encircled by ancient Moorish walls built by the Almohads, although there is also a Roman sector. Of the thirty towers protecting the ramparts, twelve are still standing, including the Púlpitos, Horno, Espaderos and Bujaco. The old town can be accessed through various arches: Arch of the Estrella by Arch of La Estrella Churriguera, built over the medieval gate called Puerta Nueva; Arch of Santa Ana, Arch of Cristo, the only Roman gate preserved in the walls; Arch of Socorro and Puerta de Mérida. Our walk begins at the highest part in the city at the Church of San Mateo (1) on the site of the great mosque, across from the Casa de las Cigüeñas (2), the House of Storks, with its battlemented tower, the only tower spared by the Catholic monarchs when all others were ordered removed. In the same square is the Casa de las Veletas (3), a mansion built over the old Alcázar or fortress, with an interesting baroque facade, now housing the Provincial Museum of Cáceres itu Esp ír ti San c A ND Ca lle Los Pin tor es Plaza de la Concepción Palacio de Santo la Isla Casa de Domingo los Carvajal Palacio de Galarza Call Iglesia de e Cru Santo Domingo z Rios Verdes Andra da s llego e Ga Torre del Torre Redonda Postigo Moret PO Sán Plaza de San Juan Calle L. E Z rgio e C. S chez Iglesia de San Juan RA DE LUNA C. Pa neras ROS O Postigo Calle C. G GRA N VÍA Arco de Santa Ana Ayuntamiento C. Nid Torre de os la Hierba Plaza Mayor Ros a Palacio de los Padre Plaza lio del rve Adarv Ada e San Duques de Abrantes Piñuelas ta An 5 a A Casa de G darve Calle Olm Torre de . y Ga Estre la Generala os lla lán Muñoz Ch Bujaco Cue ave s ta Torre de los Sande de 9 Aldana 7 11 Casa de los Toledo-Moctezuma Calle Ancha 12 13 Plaza de Plaza 8 1 Sande Santa María de Sta.Clara San Pablo Cta. Compañ Plazuela ía Arco del de Santiago 2 Plaza de 6 Socorro 14 San Jorge Casa de Torre de Plaza. 10 Pereros Carvajal Palacio de Veletas Ca Exposiciones lle 3 San Jorge Vill alo bos Torre de la Monia n Desmochada Rincó 4 Murallas Bº d San Antonio e Adarve del Cristo Call C. Moreras n ció ola ns Co C. Z a Calle D. Álv a Amarg ura ro i Ribera de Curtid ores 15 Ob ra Pía d e Ro CA co LE RO Calle Horn il lo S Mono ros ochada re Pe Torrem Antigua Sinagoga de la Judería C. Camberos del pate ria Calle Cornudillas Puerta de Mérida i N Calle Tourist Information Office Alcuéscar (11), currently a Parador hotel. Next is the Casa del Mono (12), presently the Zamora Vicente Library. Archeology. In back is the Casa de los Caballos (4), the Contemporary Art Museum. Passing by the Church of San Francisco Javier, we arrive at the Palacio de los Golfines de Abajo (5), a mansion in which Gothic, Mudéjar and Plateresque styles coexist harmoniously. In the Plaza de Santa María, we find the Cathedral of Santa María (6), burial place of illustrious citizens, the Bishop’s Palace (7), the Plateresque Casa de Ovando (8) and the Palacio de Mayoralgo (9), a Gothic mansion. Outside the ancient walls, there are other interesting buildings, such as the Palacio de Godoy (13) and the Church of Santiago (14), seat of the military order called “Fratres de Cáceres”. A fine altarpiece by Berruguete can be seen in this church. Lastly, presiding over the city is the Sanctuario (Shrine) (15) of the patron saint, the Virgin of the Mountain. Following the walls, we reach the Palacio de los Golfines de Arriba (10) and a little further, the Casa del Comendador de Cáceres is also a university city and site of important festivals: Otoño Musical, Verano Lúdico, Womad, Teatro Medieval, etc. 9 Tenerías Plasencia Encircled by the deep gorge of the Jerte river, Plasencia was founded in the 12th century by king Alfonso VIII and boasts an important artistic heritage which has merited its declaration as an Ensemble of Historical and Cultural Interest. Radiating from the main square called Plaza Mayor (1) are ten streets with names evoking a past history relating to the custom of guilds, such as the Rúa Zapatería (Shoe Shop Street) and de los Quesos (Cheese Street). The Plaza Mayor is the heart of the city, a meeting place for residents as well as visitors from nearby towns. To one side of the square stands the Town Hall (Ayuntamiento) (2) with its two towers, one with a clock displaying a life-size figure of Abuelo (Grandfather) Mayorga, the symbol of the city that rings the hours. A short stroll takes us to the Cathedral (3). The Old Cathedral (13th and 14th centuries) by Juan Plasencia’s Cathedral Francés stands opposite the Bishop’s Palace (4). Adjoining the Old Cathedral is the New, with two magnificent Renaissance facades. In the lavish interior, the altarpiece by Gregorio Fernández and the finely carved walnut stalls in the choir by the Master Rodrigo Alemán are the most striking features. In the Cathedral Museum, a 15th century codex of the Bible is on display. In the same square, we also find the Cultural Complex of Santa María (5) and the Casa del Deán (6), a mansion with a lovely corner balcony. Nearby is the Provincial Ethnographic and Textile Museum (7) where typical clothing, furnishings and woolen textiles are on display. From here, the Postigo de Santa María takes us to the Church of San Nicolás (8) in the square of the same name which along with Aqueduct i a lle l n FO NS O E LL VA te Jer San Vicente Ferrer (9) (Parador de Turismo hotel) provide a lovely setting around the stone fountain commemorating the discovery of America. The streets of Resbaladero and Bailén lead to the imposing Puerta de Berrozanas (10), a gate in the old walls. This can be followed intermittently to reach the 55-arched Aqueduct (11) which once brought water from the Sierra de Cabezabellosa and El Torno. VII Ca Ped ro Pa red es nt l al ab s s Ro o er sa C s Las Cruce Puerta del Sol an e S ina a M iró n Sa lva do r Muralla er c a r ta Nu ev a Sa o del Casa de los Toledo Barrantes lle lle en Va le Re y Ca Ca Iglesia de San Pedro AL An de To r or r C nt Ca M So La lle o Ca 2 Ca sé Iglesia de San Salvador Sa os L DE Plaza de la Cruz Dorada Jo lle la l So ez gr as le nd le Ca a Me Ca so on ná na s Pl. de San Francisco al nd da lle o Al o Rí Fe r Pa r Ca C F. Vi as en or M lle Ca s La A NID AVE le AVEN DA al sc ci an Fr o alv La Puerta Talavera n Sa C. Iglesia de San Juan las Ro lo lle LO Tala vera nta Ca Ma lle ría En car na ció SOT n E rril Cl av er ha An c e Ca ll lle S a Plaza de San Juan llas 1 G. C 10 Casa de Palacio de Almaraz S las Infantas an os c s ho ue Po Q lo lle Casa de Ca los Toledo Convento de las Carmelitas tín llo án Iglesia de San Martín Mar ía Tru ji o eg Di lle Ca alejas er i e l Plaza de la Catedral Ca LV O Ju li pa Call be 6 n Es San ter pa Za AVENIDA Isa Sa CA N Are alle C lud Fr ay as nill a Ru a. 5 3 C St 4 ro Palacio del Marqués de Mirabel Pelig ro s Casa de los Monroy Ca le Sa u Hig Veras 9 Calle José Can nte s 8 La lle Ca La Pl. de San Nicolás 7 lle Ca Mo Muralla Av en ida de Iglesia lG de Santa Ana e ra li 11 Muralla sim Torre Lucía Pedro de Alc Call án tar Tourist Information Office Plasencia is devoted to commerce. For centuries the famous rural market held on Tuesdays has attracted people from the valleys who come to fill Plasencia with their products. On the first Tuesday in August, the popular Martes Mayor takes place, a festival declared of interest to tourists. Ancient Walls ne a o Badajoz The most populous city in Extremadura, Badajoz, lies on the banks of the Guadiana river. Its proximity to the Portuguese border has bestowed upon it a frontier and commercial character, developing as a modern city which nonetheless has a long history as reflected in its buildings and monuments. Our walk can begin at the Alcazaba (1), a fortress located at the highest point of the city and an excellent example of Islamic architecture. Still preserved are the entranceway and the towers of the Traición and Apéndiz, popularly known by the name of Espantaperros. Next to this latter tower is the Archeological Museum (2), former residence of the Dukes of Roca in the 16th century which has been remodeled to house more than 15,000 artifacts from the numerous sites in the province of Badajoz. Badajoz’s Cathedral Of unquestionable interest is a visit to the Extremaduran and Ibero-american Contemporary Art Museum (MEIAC) (3) located in the bulwark of the walls. The 13th century Cathedral (4) has undergone multiple restorations. Noteworthy in the interior are the choir stalls by Jerónimo de Valencia and the fine 16th century Flemish tapestries in the sacristy. Adorning the walls are paintings by Zurbarán, Ribera and Bocanegra. The Provincial Fine Arts Museum (5), located in a 19th century palace, houses on its four floors more than a thousand paintings and sculptures. View of Badajoz VA L A CIÓ N Parque de la Baluarte de Legión San Pedro Parque C. el Cam pillo de la C. E Alcazaba C. Costanilla uge nio o zo Parque Hermos renón o L ci de la n a p Ca S Legión e . l le Pl. San ad C nc d i o ivilla José in o de C r del R . n v T B ntó C Calle C. Bra n A s ene C. raS. o e l g Sa S c as Ga e e Man Plaza lle br C. pú d Soto Plaza Morales iel Ca lv de Toros e Baluarte de C. eda Cervantes Calle d C. z Santa María Ma pe dre ano M. Ló ont de Regulares Puente de la sM as sé Dio Bl C. Aria Jo Autonomía s Pl. San n Cr Ayuntamiento a Agustín Plaza S ist da . e l o C ba Soledad en So not a L lO ante Virg José G. nd Barr Plaza de C. uque s nte rid Plaza D aldé España C. R Vice J. Sama Santa Ana am z V e d C. el C n ón ro lé e C r e ordero r M Alb To al e ll a l a z C e rrá s uño té r M n de o C e ll n a C Zu erná l H rb Baluarte de ar brie án Ga San Roque C. Fátima España e e Id Call . C Pl. de Pl. de Juan Plaza los Reyes Prim Minayo del Asilo Católicos Calle Plaza Puente de Balboa de del ez Paseo San Palmas Núñ Pilar Francisco o Pl. Hernán Vasc Calle C. Cortés de il iv A C lP V. ia uard ila EU r alle G C RO C. Góm ez de Solí s PA e Pl. de la d Pl. Santo C. Libertad Pl. de la Domingo Baluarte de Constitución San Vicente R AL AM CAJ l AV C. Man e Y ÓN uel G. .C Baluarte de gu Mi Santiago MA ALZ Auditorio Baluarte de ES AD Municipal N. TR ILL San José E A Calle Regino rita A rga s RIN Ca Puente de la rro Ma lle MA Ba . Universidad C Tie rra de Ca nsa do C. Doblados Mu rill o Afl igi do s m C. A PARD ALER AS DE z ajo eB ad nd 3 N C. Ju a SE GU RA C. M an ue lA lfa ro AVEN IDA Ca lle del DEL RO ND A la Bo mb a AV .E NR IQ UE de Estadio Ma rtín Sis ena do PILAR C. Sa n de Ca lle Cés ped es Sta. Ana ERA RET CAR Melc h St or E. a. Lu cí a Dosma i A LV UE EH .D AV Calle 8 o ach Men ez rnánd olón C. Fe a de C Avenid Pº Portugal C. Abril de cisco V. ro d Pe n S. Fra e Call ingo Dom 7 DE ENTREPUE NTES era Riv 5 to San AVENIDA IDA EN AV ro üe Ag an GUADIANA co Ar Ju S. a hec e C Call lle Ca a ost C quin Joa Av. 6 RÍO de 4 d Badajo z C. de as rrin lle Ca Po C. San Pedro A. DE 1 pa ro oso Don n Jua C. San C. Brocense os sin nte Mo CIRCUN 2 Tourist Information Office TA The Puerta de Palmas (6), the old city Herreran-style gate, provides access to the Bridge of Palmas with more than thirty semicircular arches over the Guadiana river. The gate displays a mixture of Islamic and Christian styles with two battlemented towers and the royal coat of arms of the Hapsburgs. The squares and parks in Badajoz catch our eye, especially the parks of Castelar (7) and San Francisco (8). Interesting squares include Plaza Alta, Plaza de San Juan, and Plaza de Soledad, the most commercial. Royal Bridge Mérida Capital of the Autonomous Community of Extremadura, Mérida was also the capital of the Roman province of Lusitania and an important religious center during the spread of Christianity. Founded in the year 25 B.C. with a dual purpose, Mérida first housed veterans from the 5th and 10th Roman legions, discharged by the emperor after the Cantabrian wars and secondly, it guaranteed the stability of transportation on two of the most important Roman roads: the Silver route connecting Mérida and Astorga, and the route that ran from Toledo to Lisbon. Our walk through the former Emérita Augusta begins at the Roman theater (1) (1st century B.C.) with seating for some 6,000 spectators and a stage richly decorated with rows of columns and statues. The ancient theater is still used for theatrical and musical performances. Adjoining the theater are the remains of the huge amphitheater (2) (1st century B.C.), where Roman gladiators once fought with wild beasts. The tiers of seats, tribunes and boxes are still preserved. Not far from these monuments is the National Museum of Roman Art (3) where the spirit and way of life imposed by the Roman culture can still be felt among the antiquities. In the city center stands the Temple of Diana (4) around which a 16th century residence was built, taking advantage of the columns. Nearby is the Arch of Trajan (5), a 15 meter high triumphal arch dedicated to the Emperor Trajan, displaying all the grandeur of the Roman period. On the banks of the Guadiana stands the fortress of the Alcazaba (6), a legacy of the Moors. A Roman cistern, reconstructed and adorned with Visigothic pilasters, can be seen in the interior. The Roman Roman Theater o C. Lozan Augusto lle M qu ar Estación de ferrocarril ro Pi na C. Ca rd e o rian dia C. A d rid ad M de or re s C. Vespasiano nc rio Calle Basílica de Santa Eulalia DE E XT RE MA DU an u RA J ía n uc a L S a. t S Santa Lucía AVENIDA Almendralejo María la lia Eu a St tir ár M So Plano J. d On the outskirts of the city is the Aqueduct of Los Milagros (8) which served to salvage the slope between the Albarregas river and carry water to the Proserpina reservoir, also built in the same period. The Aqueduct of San Lázaro (9) is in ruins and only preserves three pillars. The monuments of Mérida were designated a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO in 1993. 15 La rra Casa del Anfiteatro i 9 e S.d 2 1 tes ian o Pizarr Calle e ad nid Ave National Museum of Roman Art bridge (7) is among the largest of its kind, with 60 arches and a length of more than 800 meters. e eo Buru aga Avalo s C. C. V iñ er os C. Pedro o us a lid Tourist Information Office Calle s monte ian M 3 s Corte án z Suáre ar lle M é . os s rn C. He M Ca é R ñ C. Ba iana Guad lo C. Ciñue ñato C. Pe Jo s jo s Pare Torre stros Mae Molin so de Calle C. Tir o Brud J. Lennon ano C. Graci 6 lle te S Calle agasta Ca tir e 4 bla m Ra ll Ca Ayuntamiento Eulalia Santa Pórtico Calle del Foro Már R. Lillo nien Plaza de España e lverd F. Va e C. T A ROM ador Salv Concatedral de Santa María C. P Plaza de Roma 5 Museo de Arte Visigodo uente ilo J C. Cervantes . Ce San DE Calle Plaza de la Constitución C. Ca m e Morería Call IDA AVEN la de Holguin C. La Morería 7 és Co Calva EZ co A.Pache Ca za Mu z ara Alm LÓP Puente Lusitania 8 Calle e Call DEZ NÁN FER Rio Calle lle Prudencio Ca Calle riano Calle Ad JOSÉ Calle los ud Est Travel Routes through Extremadura The Three Valleys La Vera, the Jerte and the Ambroz valleys boast landscapes of rivers, unbelievably rich in fauna. The abundance of vegetation permits the three valleys to enjoy a more benign climate than the rest of the Community. The N-630 road out of Palencia ascends through the Ambroz valley along the Silver route. Aldeanueva del Camino has an interesting Roman bridge and basket makers are plentiful. The same can be said of Baños de Montemayor, where the main street is filled with baskets and other items set out on the sidewalks, producing a charming decorative effect. Baños received its name (meaning “baths”) for its hot springs during the Roman occupation and still attracts health conscious tourists, thanks to its magnificent health spa facilities. Nearby is Hervás, where visits are a must to the Jewish Quarter, the Pérez Comendador Jewish quarter in Hervás Emb de Gabriel y Galán Aldeanueva del Camino Ahigal 630 Plasencia Baños de Montemayor Hervás Tornavacas Cabezuela del Jerte Valle Jarandilla Villanueva El Torno de la Vera de la Vera Aldeanueva 110 Carcaboso La Vera Losar de la Vera Valverde Garganta Cuacos de Yuste de la Vera la Olla Pasarón Jaráiz de la Vera Talayuela de la Vera Piornal Madrigal de la Vera Tornavacas well-preserved arcaded plaza. Off to the right of the road is El Torno, where homemade liqueurs, especially cherry, can be purchased, and off to the left is Piornal, the highest town in the province of Cáceres, well-known for the festival of El Jarramplas and exquisite cured hams. Leroux Museum, the Church of Santa María de las Aguas Vivas (14th and 17th centuries) and the Convent of Los Trinitarios, now a tourist inn. From Hervás, the winding road affords exceptional views all along the mountain pass of Puerto de Honduras as it descends into the Jerte valley. The N-110 road running through the valley leads to Tornavacas, source of the Jerte river, with the baroque Church of La Asunción. At the beginning of spring, the landscape resembles a snowy field due to the effect of thousands of cherry trees in full blossom. The contrast between the white blossoms and the intense blue sky in the luxuriant valley is truly a breathtaking sight. The road descends from Piornal to the village of Jaráiz de la Vera, headquarters of the Paprika Producers Association. Nearby, we come upon the Garganta de Pedro Chate, a gorge with natural pools. Next is Cuacos de Yuste, with an arcaded plaza, the Casa de Juan de Austria, and the Plaza de las Fuentes de los Cuatro Chorros. A few kilometers away lies the Monastery of Yuste, place of Cabezuela del Valle Down the road, Jerte is noted for its alabaster and its gorges, such as the Garganta de los Infiernos, declared a Protected Nature Area. Further south on the N-110, we come to Cabezuela del Valle with a 17 retirement chosen by the Emperor Charles V, with a curious cemetery where Germans who died in Spain during the two World Wars were laid to rest. The road ascends from here to Garganta la Olla boasting traditional architecture of the region, a good example of which is the Casa de las Muñecas. Once again on the C-501, we arrive at Jarandilla de la Vera. Here we find the Palacio de los Condes de Oropesa, today a Parador de Turismo hotel, and the Church-fortress of Nuestra Señora (15th century). Two wellpreserved Roman bridges can be seen in Jarandilla and Losar de la Vera, where sculpted parterres of geometrical shapes and animal figures line the sides of the road. Next is Valverde, with a Moorish castle, the Church of Fuentes Claras and the curious Aurelio Gironda Museum. Further east is Villanueva de la Vera, where the focal point is the main Jarandilla de la Vera square. Both have been declared Historic-Artistic Ensembles and have interesting examples of traditional architecture. Almost bordering Avila province, we find Madrigal de la Vera and the Garganta de Alardos. On our return to Plasencia, a stop in Pasarón de la Vera is recommended to sample the typical sweet biscuits (perrunillas), stroll around awhile, admire the impressive Palacio de los Manrique de Lara, a 15th century mansion, and visit the Pecharromán Museum. Monastery of Yuste Los Ibores, Guadalupe and Las Villuercas The mountain massif of Las Villuercas lends its name to the land in eastern Extremadura where we find one of the most important monasteries in Spain: Guadalupe. Starting out from Navalmoral de la Mata, center of the region known as Campo Arañuelo, we take the road that leads to Guadalupe, crossing Los Ibores, a place with rustic landscapes and excellent hunting and fishing. In Bohonal de Ibor we find Valdecañas reservoir. Underneath these waters lies Talavera la Vieja since 1960. Next to the damn, the remains of a Roman temple Talayuela Navalmoral de la Mata Bohonal de Ibor Emb. de Valdecañas Romangordo Deleitosa Castañar de Ibor Valdelacasa de Tajo Navalvillar de Ibor Roturas Cabañas del Castillo Berzocana Garciaz Villuercas d e a r Cañamero r e S i Logrosán are preserved. Castañar de Ibor rises amid a grove of chestnut trees, offering visitors its famous Ibor cheese and an interesting visit to the baroque altarpiece in its church. Nearby is Navalvillar de Ibor, where you can purchase a sweet treat called “roscas de muédagos” made with honey. In the region of Villuercas, Guadalupe, declared a World Heritage Site, has been a pilgrimage destination for centuries. The monastery would house pilgrims for three days at no charge and give them a pair of shoes for the return journey. The grandiose monastery is considered the temple of the Hispanic world. Ferdinand and Isabella received Columbus here and provided him with letters so that he could be furnished with ships and crews. In the square in front of the entranceway, a baptismal font is preserved where two Indians 1441 Navezuelas 1601 Humilladero Hermitage in Guadalupe Puerto de San Vicente Guadalupe Alía Columbus brought back on his second voyage were baptized. The monastery displays a mixture of different styles: Gothic rose windows, a Mudéjar cloister with a lovely miniature temple, and more importantly, Renaissance and baroque additions. It was commissioned by king Alfonso XI to commemorate the apparition of the Virgin in gratitude for the victory at the Battle of Salado in the 14th century. One of the most interesting parts is the sacristy where eleven paintings by the Extremaduran master Zurbarán can be admired. In the camarín (shrine) of the Virgin, behind wooden doors, resides the darkfaced image of the Virgin, patron saint of Extremadura. The monks once had their own pharmacy and by special dispensation from Rome performed surgical operations. The feudal domination they exercised was the reason relations with La Puebla, the village that grew up around the Monastery, were not always good. Monastery of Guadalupe The street called Calle Mayor links the upper and lower districts and features houses with typical balconies adorned with flowers, wooden verandas and porches. On the way to Trujillo from Guadalupe, we come across Cañamero, famous for its wine cellars. Nearby is Cancho del Fresno reservoir and a little further Logrosán, with a grand Gothic church devoted to San Mateo (St. Matthew) and a rollo (a large pillar of stone with a cross on top signifying jurisdiction). Berzocana is located amidst groves of chestnut, oak and cork oak. In the vicinity, caves with prehistoric paintings have been found, as well as a Roman necropolis. Later we come upon Navezuelas, Roturas, Cabañas del Castillo and Deleitosa, all of them surrounded by lovely landscapes and hunting reserves. The lands of Deleitosa once belonged to the Duke of Frías. Of special interest in the village is the carved Crucifix in the church and the rollo. Coria Sierra de Gata and Las Hurdes Situated in the northwest part of the province of Cáceres, both the Sierra de Gata as well as the region of Las Hurdes are places with a special personality of their own, where the passage of time has respected the traditional forms of architecture, ancient customs and the vernacular language, called “fala” in Valley de Zálama: Valverde del Fresno, Eljas and San Martín de Trevejo. Coria, a town with an old quarter and perfectly preserved walls, a castle with a keep, and a 15th century Cathedral, is the starting point on this route. Following the course of the Alagón river, we reach the Borbollón reservoir, a recreational spot for fishermen and boating enthusiasts. Not far to the north is Torre de Don Miguel, formerly a Roman settlement, with an impressive 15th century church devoted to La Asunción. At the bottom of a lovely valley surrounded by pine trees is Gata, which has been designated a historic site of Cultural Interest. Passing by Cadalso and Descargamaría, we reach Robledillo de Gata. Here we can see good examples of popular architecture recovered for “rural tourism”. From the portico of the church, there is a lovely view of the town. Casares de las Hurdes El Ladrillar Nuñomoral Vegas de Coria Las Mestas Riomalo Robledillo 1367 Jañona Pinofranqueado Descargamaría S.Martín Casar de Valverde de Trevejo Gata Marchagaz Palomero del Fresno Cadalso Acebo Eljas Palomero Torre de Hoyos D. Miguel Ahigal Trevejo Pozuelos Emb. de de Zarzón Cilleros Gabriel y Galán Emb. de Borbollón Moraleja Montehermoso Carcaboso Plasencia Coria We must retrace our route partially and then head west to reach Hoyos, capital of the Sierra de Gata. In the western part of the Sierra, Trevejo, with a castle on the heights, commands our attention. The views as well as the examples of popular architecture are splendid. San Martín de Trevejo is of pre-Roman origin as evidenced by the stelae found here. Its arcaded square is a meeting place for the townspeople. Nearby is Acebo, famous for its bobbin lace. On the way to Valverde del Fresno, we come across Eljas, completely engulfed by nature. Valverde is the last town in the western area of the sierra and has a number of houses made of adobe and wood. Of interest are the Plaza Mayor with lovely wooden arcades and the 16th century Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción. Las Hurdes road turns to ascend to Nuñomoral, a small village in a beautiful natural setting. We must return again to the C-512 to reach Las Mestas, famous for its honey and pollen. El Ladrillar is a town further north, almost on the border between Extremadura and Salamanca. After Ríomalo, bordering on the region of Castilla y León, we can see the impressive meanders of the Alagón river. To begin our journey through Las Hurdes, we must return to Coria, but on the way we can stop off in Cilleros, famous for the wines processed in the so-called bóvedas (vaulted caves). In the House Museum there is a permanent exhibit on traditional housing. Taking the C-512, we arrive at Pinofranqueado. The natural pool under the bridge here is a mandatory stopping place. In Vegas de Coria, the On our way back to Coria, we go through Casar de Palomero, with old Arab and Jewish quarters which merit a visit. Marchagaz and Palomero are the last towns on our itinerary before leaving Las Hurdes. 22 The Route of the Conquistadors Trujillo In the 16th century, Extremadura left its mark on world history as a result of the important role Extremadurans played in the discovery of the New World. Trujillo not only was the birthplace of two great conquistadors, Francisco de Pizarro and Francisco de Orellana, it also saw other great native sons take their place in history, including Fray Jerónimo de Loaísa, the first Bishop of Cartagena de Indias, and Nuflo de Chaves, discoverer of Bolivia. One of most attractive places to visit is the huge Plaza Mayor. Along the cobbled streets, there are numerous fine noble mansions, such as the Palacio de Marqués de Conquista, Ballesteros, Piedras Albas, and the churches of Santiago, San Martín and Santa María la Mayor, and the Juliana tower. Castle in Villanueva de la Serena Badajoz Medellín Villanueva de la Serena Jerez de los Caballeros From here we can visit Medellín, birthplace of Hernán Cortés, conqueror of the Aztec empire. Still preserved are the remains of a theater and bridge from the Roman period. In Villanueva de la Serena, Pedro Valdivia, founder of Nueva Extremadura, presently in Chilean territory, was born. Here we can admire the Monastery of Church of Santa María in Trujillo Countryside near Olivenza San Benito, also known by the name of Palacio Prioral. La Raya Almost 300 kilometers of frontier land between Extremaduran and Portuguese towns burst forth with history and reminders of old conflicts, buying and selling of goods between neighbors, and bridges linking towns. In Badajoz, capital of the province of the same name, Pedro Alvarado was born, conqueror of Guatemala and El Salvador. Mandatory visits include the Cathedral and the Archeological, Fine Arts, Extremaduran and Ibero-american Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Cathedral Museum. Valencia de Mombuey, hovering at the southernmost part of the border, once belonged to the lord of Feria at the beginning of the 15th century. Amid holm oak, we find Villanueva del Fresno. Although believed to be founded by the Knights Templar in the 13th century, prehistoric and Roman remains have also been found here. In the main square stands the Town Hall (Ayuntamiento) with a lovely arcaded gallery and a small temple in the center. The last stop is Jerez de los Caballeros, birthplace of the first European to see the Pacific Ocean: Vasco Núñez de Balboa. The solemn and spectacular festivities of Holy Week and the many monuments, including the fortress of the Knights Templar, with its Torre Sangrienta (Bloody Tower), are the most important attractions. Church of La Encarnación in Jerez de los Caballeros Alconchel, like so many of the towns in La Raya, changed hands between Portugal and Spain at various times. The Order of the 24 Knights Templar established itself here and later, the Knights of Alcántara. Noteworthy are the Plaza Mayor and the medieval bridge over the Alconchel stream. To the east is Táliga, which like Olivenza pertained to Portugal until 1801. A little further north is Olivenza, founded by the Knights Templar in the 13th century. The defensive walls and splendid castle with an impressive keep (Torre de Homenaje), commissioned by the king of Portugal Juan II, command our attention. In general, all the architecture, civil, military and religious, presents a delightful mixture of Spanish and Portuguese styles. Also interesting is the attractive door in the Portuguese, Manueline Gothic style of the Town Hall (Ayuntamiento), the church and the Ethnographic Museum located in the Panadería del Rey (King’s Bakery). After passing through Badajoz on the road to Alburquerque, it would be worthwhile to stop in Bótoa where the first Sunday in Castle in Alburquerque Cilleros Alcántara Valencia de Alcántara Alburquerque Badajoz Olivenza Valencia de Mombuey May a popular “romería” (pilgrimage to a shrine) is held in honor of the virgin of the same name. Villar del Rey has acquired international fame for its production of slate used in construction. We find Alburquerque nestled in the foothills of the Sierra de San Pedro. Luna castle, home of Alvaro de Luna, was built at the beginning of the 14th century and stands guard over the village down below. A leisurely stroll is in order to see the interesting religious and civil buildings. On both sides of the road, the landscape is covered with cork oak trees, the basis of a powerful cork producing industry, earning San Vicente de Alcántara the name of the “cork capital”. In addition to Piedrabuena castle, once the seat of the Order of the Knights of Alcántara, the dolmen that can be seen in the vicinity are an added attraction. Also notable are the dolmen in the vicinity of Valencia de Alcántara. In the Church of Nuestra Señora de Rocamador, Isabel, daughter of the Catholic monarchs, married the king of Portugal, Manuel “the Fortunate” in 1497. The town’s Gothic quarter is one of the most attractive and best preserved in Spain. Church of San Benito in Alcántara is the most remarkable. Other interesting monuments include the Conventual de San Benito, the Church of Nuestra Señora de Almocóvar and the Church of San Pedro de Alcántara. Cedillo is the westernmost town in Extremadura. Not too far away in Santiago de Alcántara, prehistoric cave paintings are preserved in the “Cave of the Borrico”. Further to the north is Alcántara, on the banks of the Tajo river. Of all the monuments evoking the city’s past greatness, the imposing Roman bridge (2nd century A.D.) 192 meters long dedicated to the Emperor Trajan In Zarza la Mayor, worth visiting is Peñafiel castle, built on the border with Portugal. In its Plaza Mayor stands the former Royal Silk Factory (18th century) and almost at the edge of the town, the Conceja Fountain. After crossing the valley of Alagón, we reach Cilleros, noted for its wines. At the gateway to the Sierra de Gata, we encounter Valverde del Fresno with lovely examples of popular mountain architecture. If Cilleros is famous for its wines, Valverde has earned a name for itself for the olive oil and cheese, as well as the delicious honey and pollen produced here. Dolmen in Valencia de Alcántara 26 Solana de los Barros Alange Torremejía Almendralejo TI E RRA D E BA RROS Palomas Puebla de la Reina 951 Sta. Marta Villalba de los Barros Villafranca de los Barros Fuente del Maestre Ribera Hornachos 630 del Fresno Salvatierra Feria de los Barros Los Santos Llera Zafra de Maimona Valle de Valencia Matamoros de las Torres 432 Aceuchal Palace of Monsalud in Almendralejo Usagre Jerez de los Caballeros Fregenal de la Sierra S. Cristobal 774 Higuera la Real Valencia del Ventoso Berlanga Bienvenida 432 Fuente Llerena de Cantos 630 Casas de Reina Calera de León Fuente del Arco Bodonal de la Sierra Segura de León Cabeza la Vaca Monesterio 1110 Tentudia Through Lands of Wine and Artisans Azuaga Guadalcanal de los Milagros. Skirting the reservoir, we eventually arrive at Puebla de la Reina with a magnificent example of Mudéjar art in the tower and the church. A journey through the regions of Tierra de Barros, Tentudía and the Campiña Sur embraces large tracts of land devoted to growing grapes, hunting and earthenware. The route passes by Almendralejo to get on the C-423 heading in the direction of Aceuchal. Once we arrive, a visit to the Bullfighting Museum and a stroll around to admire the noble architecture would be a good way to enjoy the afternoon. Aceuchal is famous for its garlic and once belonged to the Knights Templar. Almendralejo, starting point for this route, has a flourishing wine industry which has earned it welldeserved fame. At the edge of the Alange reservoir stands the town of the same name. Alange has splendid hot springs which date from the Roman period, a medieval castle, cave paintings and the Church of Nuestra Señora The traveler now finds himself in the heart of Tierra de Barros, and the landscape is filled with grapevines, source of the celebrated wines produced in these lands. Villalba de los Barros, Santa Marta de los Barros are some of the towns on Parador hotel in Zafra 27 Passing by Bodonal de la Sierra, Segura de León and Cabeza la Vaca, the road winds up to the Monastery of Tentudía, with splendid views and an interesting Mudéjar cloister from the 16th century. Descending again, the next town is Calera de León, where the Conventual Santiaguista can be visited. Monesterio is a good place to stock up on cold cuts before heading to Fuente de Cantos, birthplace of the celebrated painter Zurbarán. Church of Santísimo Cristo del Humilladero in Azuaga the way to Salvatierra de los Barros, known as the town of the potters, where almost every street has a workshop or store devoted to this activity. Taking the N-432 west, we reach Llerena and enter into the Campiña Sur. Llerena, the Arab town of Ellerina, was the seat of the Holy Office and has fine examples of Mudéjar and baroque art. On the way to Fuente del Arco, almost at the border with Andalusia, is Casas de Reina. In the outskirts we find the Roman Theater of Regina. Azuaga was a very important place due to its privileged location as a passageway between Andalusia and Extremadura in Roman times. Crossing La Campiña, we head east to Hornachos, at the foot of the sierra of the same name, habitat for birds of prey. Cave paintings and a 5th century fortress are testimony of an interesting past. In Villafranca de los Barros, famous for its sweets and needlework, we take the N-630 to return to Almendralejo. Even before arriving in Feria, we can already glimpse from afar the imposing 15th century castle presiding over the town. The next stop is Zafra, known as “Little Seville”, with its charming Plaza Grande and Plaza Chica, and the Church of La Candelaria with an altarpiece by Zurbarán and another by Churriguera. In Jerez de los Caballeros, (“caballeros” means knights) capital of the Order of the Knights Templar, the last knights of this powerful order refused to surrender and were beheaded. Along the narrow streets of the town, a rich and varied sample of history and art awaits the visitor. Also under the Knights Templar was Fregenal de la Sierra, where the 13th century fortress, the Church of Santa María and the plazas of Abasto and Toros form an impressive assemblage. 28 Castiblanco Valdecaballeros Escurial Herrera Emb. de García de Sola Peloche del Duque Madrigalejo Fuenlabrada de los Montes Navalvillar de Pela Miajadas Casas de D. Pedro 430 Villanueva de la Serena Don Benito Emb. de Orellana Orellana la Vieja La Coronada Talarrubias Tamurejo Puebla de Alcocer Embalse del Zújar Magacela Peñalsordo L A S E R E N A Campanario Quintana de la Serena Castuera Our tour through the region of La Serena begins at Don Benito, a populous town. The FEVAL fairgrounds here host important agricultural, livestock and industrial fairs. Next is Villanueva de la Serena, where we find the Herreranstyle Church of La Asunción in the Plaza de España. Also of interest is the 16th century Town Hall (Ayuntamiento) and the Palace of the Priores de Magacela. Cabeza del Buey Higuera de La Serena Zalamea de la Serena Emb. de la Siruela Serena 939 Monterrubio de la Serena Dolmen in Magacela La Serena, La Siberia and their Reservoirs On our way to Castuera, we pass Magacela. Its Moorish castle affords impressive views of the surrounding plains. In the vicinity there are interesting megalithic dolmen which have given the town its name. The Order of Alcántara established its priory here until it was transferred to Villanueva. In the Hermitage of Nuestra Señora de Piedra Escrita, on the outskirts of Campanario, a traditional romería (pilgrimage to a shrine) is held. A stop in Castuera is The regions of La Serena and La Siberia are located in the northeast part of the province of Badajoz. In La Serena, the abundance of water is evident in the numerous reservoirs, while the quality of the pastureland in La Siberia gives rise to the “tortas” from La Serena made with the sheep’s milk from La Siberia. 29 recommended to purchase the famous “torta de La Serena”, cheese made with sheep’s milk. The mayor of Zalamea de la Serena, Pedro Crespo, was immortalized in the plays written by Lope de Vega and Calderón de la Barca. In the town center we can see the medieval castle and the dystilo, a Roman funerary monument built in the year 103 honoring the Emperor Trajan. Almost bordering the province of Córdoba is Monterrubio de la Serena. Various noble homes can be admired throughout the town. Campanario presides over the medieval hamlet. In Talarrubias, interesting cave paintings have been discovered. In addition, the 16th century Church of Santa Catalina de Alejandría merits a visit, one of the best examples of Gothic-Mudéjar-Renaissance religious art in the area. The road heads now to Cabeza del Buey, a town with great historical importance. In the vicinity, the Hermitage of Nuestra Señora de Belén, built in the 13th century, was originally the quarters of the Knights Templar. Almost at the border with La Siberia is Peñalsordo, where one of the oldest festivals in Extremadura is held, Corpus Christi, declared of Tourist Interest. On the banks of the Orellana reservoir lies Orellana la Vieja. A fortress-palace evokes the village’s past splendor. We have to go through the towns of Navalvillar de Pela, and Casas de Don Pedro to get to Herrera del Duque, once the estate of the Dukes of Osuna. Its unusual Moorish castle has no towers. Peloche rises near the García Sola reservoir, as well as Valdecaballeros, where numerous nautical activities are organized at the artificial lake. From Castilblanco, the road leads to the National Reserve of Cíjara, 26,000 hectares of nature in the heart of Extremadura. Crossing over the reservoir of La Serena we enter into the region of La Siberia. The first town is Puebla de Alcocer with an imposing stone fortress which Zalamea de la Serena 30 The Silver Route Hervás Plasencia Garrovillas The Silver route was the most important transportation route in western “Hispania” of the Romans. It connected the city of Emérita Augusta (Mérida) with Astorga. From Astorga it entered into Galicia to Santiago or via León, making its way to the Cantabrian Sea. From Mérida it penetrated Andalusia to Seville. Later, it was called the “Mozarab Road” and was used by Christians living in Muslim territory to journey to the pilgrimage site of Santiago de Compostela. Baños de Montemayor Cáceres Mérida Alange Zafra Calera de León Monesterio Starting out in the province of Salamanca, we enter Cáceres province through the Béjar pass and arrive at Baños de Montemayor, a town known for its health spas and also as a center for handcrafted wicker and leather shoes. In Hervás, the old Jewish Quarter and the Pérez-Comendador Leroux Museum are particularly noteworthy. Roman road in Baños de Montemayor A short distance before we arrive in Plasencia, we find the Roman ruins of Capera, the most important monument being the Roman arch of Cáparra with the remains of a small temple with four doors, underneath which ran the Silver route. Palace of Justice in Plasencia Plasencia merits a lengthy stop in order to visit the old and new Cathedrals, the Plaza Mayor, and the ancient walls and gates. In the municipality of Garrovillas, we find the Alconétar bridge, transferred here when the Roman bridge of 31 Mérida, has an outstanding complex of monuments and archeological remains which evoke its glorious past as the capital of the Roman region Hispania Ulterior - Lusitania. Plaza Mayor in Garovillas Mosaic in Mérida’s National Museum of Roman Art Alcántara was built. Cáceres, a lovely medieval city, renovated as a result of the conquest of South America, is the next stage of this journey. Narrow streets, stately old mansions, churches and a Jewish quarter make up this attractive city, declared a World Heritage City by the UNESCO in 1986. Alange boasts a Roman spa still in use. It also has a medieval Moorish castle. Next we come to Zafra, where its charming squares catch our attention: the completely arcaded Plaza Grande on a grand scale, and the smaller Múdejar-style Plaza Chica, as well as the 15th century castle. As our journey draws to a close, we stop awhile in Calera de León to see the 15th century Conventual Santiaguista and the 13th century Monastery of Santa María de Tentudía. In Monesterio one of the great gastronomic delights in Spain awaits the traveler on this route: cured ham from the much prized “pata negra” pig. Alange Leisure and Events Chief Festivals January La Encamisá (16th) in Navalvillar de Pela (Badajoz), riders on horseback ride through the town amid bonfires. El Jarramplas (19th-20th) in Piornal (Cáceres) where a masked man wearing a protective padded suit endures a shower of turnips. Las Carantoñas (20th) in Acehuche (Cáceres), men wearing animal masks accompany the procession of San Sebastián. “Los Empalos” in Valverde de la Vera December The night of the 7th, the eve of the Immaculate Conception, is celebrated in various towns in Extremadura. Los Escobazos in Jarandilla de la Vera (Cáceres) and La Encamisá in Torrejoncillo (Cáceres) are of special interest. Carnival (Carnaval) Theater Festivals The most important Mardi Gras-style parades are held in the capital city of Badajoz and Navalmoral de la Mata (Cáceres). Pero Palo carnival in Villanueva de la Vera (Cáceres) recalls the old inquisition-style trials. Cáceres: Medieval Theater Festival in June. Mérida: Classical Theater Festival in July and August. Alcántara: Medieval and Renaissance Theater Festival in August. Holy Week (Semana Santa) Los Empalos in Valverde de la Vera (Cáceres) and the dances of El Chíviri on Easter Sunday in Trujillo (Cáceres). Big processions are held in Cáceres, Jerez de los Caballeros, Badajoz and Mérida. Handicrafts Noted for their pottery is Ceclavín and Arroyo de la Luz (Cáceres). Also well-known is the red earthenware from Salvatierra de los Barros (Badajoz), a town filled with potters’ workshops. Textiles are produced in Torrejoncillo and Trujillo in the province of Cáceres. Alabaster is handcrafted in the Jerte Valley (Cáceres). Guadalupe (Cáceres) is noted for handcrafted copper. In the town of Acebo (Cáceres), almost all the women in town do some kind of May The festival of Santa Cruz (1st-3rd) in Feria (Badajoz); San Isidro (15th) in Valencia de Alcántara (Cáceres) and Fuente de Cantos (Badajoz). June Corpus Christi (week of the 24th) in Peñalsordo (Badajoz) and El Toro de San Juan in Coria (Cáceres). 33 soups (gazpachos) are welcome in the summer heat, including ajoblanco, poleo, trincaya and cachorreña. Potter’s workshop in Salvatierra de los Barros embroidery. Leather, including embossed leather, is typical of Jerez de los Caballeros (Badajoz). In Guijo de Santa Bárbara, Hervás and Guadalupe (Cáceres) wooden furniture is made. Last of all, the town of Montehermoso (Cáceres) has become famous for its hats, the most original part of the regional costume with a mirror indicating if one is single, married or a widow. There is an Association of Artisans (Asociación de Artesanos) in Cáceres 927 47 26 50 and another in Badajoz 924 69 81 46. Cuisine The cuisine of Extremadura is characterized by its excellent use of nature’s bounty. Centuries old recipes make up the major part of today’s cuisine, such as the variety of lamb dishes adapted from the Moors and the introduction of potatoes and peppers (used for paprika) brought back by returning explorers. A simple dish like soup is a notable example of the myriad variations in this region’s cooking. You can delight the palate with tomato, garlic, potatoes from La Vera, green asparagus or Bishop’s soup. Chilled Cured meats from Extremadura enjoy well-deserved fame, especially those from the controlled areas using the name of “Dehesa Extremeña”. The controlled wineproducing area is called “Ribera del Guadiana”. There are also other top quality cured meats and wines, such as red wine from Salvatierra, white wine from Miajadas and those from Cañamero. The sparkling wines, known as cavas, from Almendralejo and liqueurs from Guijo de Santa Bárbara and a liqueur made from acorns from Almendralejo in La Vera, as well as cherry liqueur from the Jerte Valley, must also be mentioned. Delicious freshwater fish include tench and trout from La Vera and Jerte. Olive oil comes from Sierra de Gata, Monterrubio de la Serena and Jerez de los Caballeros. Cheese deserves special mention; tortas made with ewe’s milk from La Serena, Casar de Cáceres, Los Ibores and Las Villuercas, and those made from goat’s milk. Both Islamic and monastic influences are discernible in the desserts and other sweet treats. Museums Badajoz Badajoz Provincial Archeological Museum Plaza José Alvarez y Sáenz de Buruaga 924 22 23 14, fax 924 22 29 05 Provincial Museum of Fine Arts Calle Duque de San Germán, 3 924 22 28 45, fax 924 25 40 63 Cathedral Museum. Plaza de España 924 22 39 99, fax 924 26 05 93 Extremaduran and Ibero-american Contemporary Art Museum (MEIAC) Calle Museo, 2 924 25 98 16, fax 924 26 06 40 Mérida National Museum of Roman Art José Ramón Mélida, 2 924 31 16 90, fax 924 30 20 06 Museum of Art and Visigoth Culture Calle Santa Julia, 3 924 30 01 06 Geology Museum 924 33 06 00 Olivenza Ethnographic Museum González Santana 924 49 02 22 MEIAC in Badajoz Ethnographic Museum in Olivenza Cáceres Cáceres Provincial Museum. Plaza de las Veletas, 1 927 24 72 34, fax 927 24 72 77 Museum of Art and Culture (Casa Pedrilla). Ronda de San Francisco 927 24 16 33, fax 927 21 42 88 Provincial Museum in Cáceres Ethnographic Museum in Cáceres National Museum of Roman Art in Mérida Cilleros Casa Museo (House-Museum) 927 51 20 37 Guadalupe Royal Monastery of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Plaza Mayor 927 36 70 00 Hervás Pérez Comendador Leroux Museum Calle Asensio Neila, 5 927 48 16 55 Malpartida de Cáceres Vostell Museum of Modern Art, Los Barruecos (3 km from Malpartida) 927 27 64 92, fax 927 27 64 91 Plasencia Cathedral Museum. Plaza de la Catedral 927 41 48 52 Ethnographic and Textile Museum Marqués de la Puebla, s/n 927 41 14 35 Monfragüe Nature Park Information Center Villareal de San Carlos 927 19 91 34 USEFUL INFORMATION International Prefix: 34 Tourist Information Turespaña 901 300 600 www.tourspain.es Paradores de Turismo Central Reservation Office: Calle Requena 3. Madrid 28013 91 516 66 66, fax 91 516 66 57 www.parador.es Consejería de Industria , Comercio y Turismo (Advisory Board for Industry, Commerce and Tourism) . Cárdenas, 11. Mérida (Badajoz) 924 38 13 00 www.juntaex.es E-mail: [email protected] Badajoz: Parador de Mérida Plaza de la Constitución, 3 924 31 38 00, fax 924 31 92 08 Parador de Zafra Plaza Corazón de María, 7 924 55 45 40, fax 924 55 10 18 Cáceres: Parador de Cáceres. Ancha, 6 927 21 17 59, fax 927 21 17 29 Parador de Guadalupe Marqués de la Romana, 10 927 36 70 75, fax 927 36 70 76 Parador de Jarandilla de la Vera Carretera de Plasencia 927 56 01 17, fax 927 56 00 88 Parador de Plasencia Plaza San Vicente Ferrer 927 42 58 70, fax 927 42 58 72 Parador de Trujillo Plaza de Santa Clara 927 32 13 50, fax 927 32 13 66 Patronato de Artesanía y Turismo (Handicrafts and Tourism Board) Calle Amargura, 1. Cáceres 927 22 55 97 fax 927 25 54 67 Asociación de Empresarios de Hostelería (Hotel and Restaurant Owners’ Association) Cáceres 927 22 14 03 Badajoz 924 22 18 49 Local Tourist Offices Badajoz Badajoz. Plaza de la Libertad, 3 924 22 27 63, fax 924 31 47 14 Mérida. Paseo José Alvarez Sáenz de Buruaga 924 31 53 53, fax 924 31 47 Olivenza. Plaza de España / fax 924 49 01 51 Useful Telephone Numbers Medical Emergencies 061 Civil Guard 062 Traffic: Highway Information 91 742 12 13 Renfe (National Railways) 902 24 02 02 Buses: Badajoz 924 25 86 61 Cáceres 927 23 25 50 Taxis Badajoz 924 24 31 01 Cáceres 927 21 21 21 Cáceres Cáceres. Plaza Mayor, 3 / fax 927 24 63 47 Guadalupe. Plaza Mayor / fax 927 15 41 28 Plasencia. Calle del Rey, 8 / fax 927 42 21 59 Trujillo. Plaza Mayor / fax 927 32 26 77 36 Spanish Tourist Information Offices Abroad Canada. Toronto Tourist Office of Spain 2 Bloor Street West. Suite 3402 Toronto, Ontario M4W 3E2 (1416) 961 31 31, fax (1416) 961 19 92 e-mail: [email protected] Great Britain. London Spanish Tourist Office 22-23 Manchester Square London W1M 5AP (44207) 486 80 77, fax (44207) 486 80 34 e-mail: [email protected] Japan. Tokyo Tourist Office of Spain Daini Toranomon Denki Bldg.4F. 3-1-10 Toranomon. Minato-Ku. Tokyo-105 (813) 34 32 61 41, fax (813) 34 32 61 44 e-mail: [email protected] Russia. Moscow Spanish Tourist Office Tverskaya - 16/2 Business Center Galeria Aktor, 6th floor. Moscow 103009 (7095) 935 83 97, fax (7095) 935 83 96 e-mail: [email protected] Singapore. Singapore Spanish Tourist Office 551 Orchard Road, Liat Tower # 09-04 238881 Singapore (657) 37 30 08, fax (657) 37 31 73 e-mail: [email protected] United States of America Los Angeles Tourist Office of Spain 8383 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 960 Beverly Hills, CA 90211 (1323) 658 71 95 fax (1313) 658 10 61 e-mail: [email protected] Chicago Tourist Office Of Spain Water Tower Place, suite 915 East 845 North Michigan Avenue Chicago, IL 60611 (1312) 642 19 92, fax (1312) 642 98 17 e-mail: [email protected] Miami Tourist Office of Spain 1221 Brickell Avenue Miami, FL 33131 (1305) 358 19 92, fax (1305) 358 82 23 e-mail: [email protected] New York Tourist Office of Spain 666 Fifth Avenue 35 th floor New York, NY 10103 (1212) 265 88 22, fax (1212) 265 88 64 e-mail: [email protected] Embassies in Madrid Canada: Núñez de Balboa, 35 91 431 43 00, fax 91 431 23 67 Great Britain: Fernando El Santo, 16 91 319 02 00, fax 91 308 10 33 Japan: Serrano, 109 fax 91 590 13 21 91 590 76 00 Russia: Velazquez, 155 91 562 22 64, fax 91 562 97 12 United States of America: Serrano, 75 91 587 22 00, fax 91 587 23 03 Text: Cesar Justel Perandones Translation: J. West Photographs: Turespaña Archives Graphic Design: Florencio García Published by: © Turespaña Secretaría de Estado de Comercio y Turismo. Ministerio de Economía Printed by: Impresa D.L. M-00.000-2000 NIPO: 104-00-025-0 Printed in Spain First Edition Secretaría de Estado de Comercio y Turismo Ministerio de Economía I Extremadura Spain Turespaña