The Medieval Streets of Cáceres

By Sam | November 14, 2017

History Hiker

Samuel Garza

I traveled from Madrid to Caceres, which was my first trip to the Extremadura region of Spain. My friends in Madrid told me that visiting Extremadura is the perfect place to see old Spain. Like many areas of Spain, there have been settlements in or around Caceres since prehistoric times.(1) The city was founded by the Romans in 25 B.C. and the city still has it’s ancient walls and and much younger medieval streets and churches. I arrived via train and on my journey I saw a countryside filled with grazing cattle and pigs. In 1986, Caceres was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Alfonso IX of Leon conquered the city from the Moors in 1227.(2) Soon after, the town grew in prosperity due to free trade that the town’s merchants implemented. Due to family dueling and bitter rivalries, King Fernando and Isabel ordered many of the town’s watch towers to be demolished.(3)

Caceres was untouched by the Spanish Civil War and stands gloriously as it once did. I was so excited walking around the city late in the evening and also early in the morning taking photos and drinking coffee in one of the many cafes sprinkled throughout the town. Caceres is known for it’s wine, which is a full bodied red that does not disappoint. You can also taste amazing goat and sheep cheese that pairs well with your Extremadura wine. A must try is Caceres’ famous stews, pork, and lamb. The food here was amazing.

Below I have provided a gallery of photos that hopefully express the beauty of the streets of Caceres. This is a city to get lost in, to wander with pure excitement, and to get lost and to use your camera like there is no tomorrow. Caceres was a wonderful city to visit and I learned enough about it’s history in just a few short days to want to return to the Extremadura region in 2016.

Plaza Mayor

Upon my arrival, the town square was buzzing with activity. A tent was erected in the middle of the square and inside the locals were tasting food and wine. I also came across a book sale (pictured below) but I decided against buying a few books due to lack of space and I just didn’t want the added weight.

San Francisco Javier Church

I made several attempts to enter the church and each time I was met by a locked door. I couldn’t find the hours the church was operand and the tourist office nearby had no clue. Anyways, the exterior of the church is beautiful and worth seeing.

Plaza De Santa Maria

Walking further into the winding streets of Caceres, I wandered into Plaza De Santa Maria. The plaza has several important building and it is ideal for setting up your tripod and capturing some beautiful images.

Iglesia de Santa Maria on the left.

Arco de la Estrella

In 1726, Manuel Churriguera built this beautiful low-arched gate. The gate connects Plaza Mayor with the old town. It’s a beautiful structure and worth taking a few pictures early in the morning with less people crowding your shot.

Iglesia de San Mateo

Nestled in the center of the old town, is San Mateo church. Construction began in the 14th century and was completed in the 17th century.

How to Get There

I arrived in Caceres from Madrid via train. The travel time is 2 hours and 50 minutes one way for around €58 round trip. I highly advise that you buy your tickets at the station. You can also travel via bus. The bus trip will take 4.5 hours at a cost of around €20.

Where to Stay

I stayed at the Hotel AH Agora, which is a few blocks away from Plaza Mayor. There are plenty of places to stay, but book your rooms in advance to get better prices.

Address and Phone Number: AH Agora/Parras, 25/Cáceres, 10002, Spain/Phone: +34927626360

View more photographs of Caceres, Spain by Samuel J. Garza.