Alcantara travel guide and discussion

Exploring the Central Plateau of Spain ~ Ciudad Real (Region) Visiting the Marquis of Torremejía's estate is an unexpectedly delightful and unique experience. The restoration of this building is truly a masterpiece, blending exquisite taste with profound respect for history. Each room has its own charm, but the oriental murals and original lattice ceilings left me in awe. The guide's explanations were rich in detail and anecdotes, adding extra value to the entire journey and making it unforgettable. Undoubtedly, this is one of those hidden gems that ends up being the highlight of your trip. Highly recommended for those looking to delve into the vibrant history of Almagro.

Exploring the Spanish Central Plateau ~ Ciudad Real (Region) It is an unpolished gem: recently discovered and still under development, this palace holds many curiosities. Since it has undergone only one non-destructive renovation over the centuries, you can now witness traces of the past in a unique way. Beautiful lattice ceilings, original clay bricks... Listening to our guide Santos Romero's explanations is equally fascinating—a true gem. If you love history, art, and archaeology, don't miss this place.

Spain Westward Journey ~ Cáceres (Region) The first document recording the existence of this house dates back to 1401, although the current building was built in the first half of the 17th century by Frey Don Juan Roco Campofrío. On January 17, 1213, Alfonso IX of León finally conquered Alcántara from the Muslims, with Bernardo Rocco being a key protagonist of the battle, and he was recognized with the Rancho de Campofrio. The building was used as a general hospital during the War of Succession and later as a military barracks. It was destroyed in 1809 and later rebuilt to house veterans of the Revolutionary War. The granite ashlar facade consists of three levels in which balance and symmetry prevail thanks to the regular arrangement of its openings. The windows on the first and second floors are decorated with triangular pediments. In the centre, the solid doorway opens to a lower door framed by Tuscan columns, while the balcony is completed by a split pediment supported by Ionic columns, adding a certain dynamism to the whole. It is currently the largest civilian building in Alcántara. #2024TravelReview #SpainTravel #Extremadura

Spain Westward Journey ~ Cáceres (Region) The church was built in the 17th century at the expense of the people of San Pedro de Alcántara’s birthplace. Born in 1499, this Franciscan reformer was very into asceticism and abstinence. The church has only one nave, and the Baroque altar painting inside is very eye-catching. The main facade is simple yet slightly refined in style. The old men in the village sat there drinking. In the square in front there is a statue of San Pedro de Alcántara. #2024TravelReview #SpainTravel #Extremadura

Spain Westward Journey ~ Cáceres (Region) This is the former headquarters of the Military Order of Alcántara. It was built in the 16th century and combines Gothic, Renaissance and plate styles. The cloister has two floors and is in Gothic style. Highlights of the interior are the main cathedral and the Bravo de Jerez Church. Currently, it is the headquarters of the San Benito Alcántara Foundation and a meeting place for many activities, including studies and research. #2024TravelReview #SpainTravel #Extremadura

Traveling westward in Spain ~ Cáceres (region) In the last spur of the San Pedro Mountains, on the banks of the Tagus River, the historic district of Alcántara unfolds. Located on the border of Spain and Portugal, this city, informally known as Laia, has a valuable monumental heritage. Some of the most important buildings include the Roman Bridge and the bridge built by the Knights of Alcantara. Holm oak and cork oak groves are part of the beautiful landscape surrounding the Alcantara Reservoir, which is an excellent location for water sports, hiking and horseback riding. The Tagus River also offers many spots where visitors can fish. One of the most iconic buildings in the town of Cáceres Alcantara, taking you back to Roman Spain. This is the Roman Bridge, an engineering marvel built in the second century AD across the Tagus River (known to the Romans as the Tagus River). The bridge is more than 200 meters long and 60 meters high, with six arches and retains an honorary arch dedicated to Emperor Trajan. Some of the most important monuments in the town's urban layout were built on the initiative of the Knights of Alcantara. From the Middle Ages to the 13th century, Extremadura was the border between the Kingdom of Leon and the Moorish Kingdom. Therefore, after the Reconquista, many military orders took control of these lands. The parish church of Our Lady of Almokovar is a good example of this period, which mainly follows the Romanesque style (already widespread in the northern part of the peninsula). Built on top of an old mosque, this church has a beautiful facade that announces the coming Gothic style. #2024Travel Review