Badajoz

Badajoz, located at the top of Cerro de la Muela and surrounded by the Guadiana, commands a strategic location due to its past as a Taifa Kingdom. Its bastioned perimeter is a testament to its need for defence, as it is also a border territory with Portugal.

Its tourist attractions include places such as the Alcazaba, the largest in Europe, where the Provincial Archaeological Museum is located. The museum's collections house all kinds of artefacts found in areas close to the city. Next to the Alcazaba is the Espantaperros tower, of Almohad origin and octagonal in plan.

The cathedral of San Juan Bautista is situated in the historic centre of Badajoz and features characteristics typical of a fortress, with strong, thick walls, battlements, and wide towers. The Plaza Alta, Renaissance in style but of medieval origin, is a much-loved place by the people of Badajoz. Concerts and festivities have always been held there; and it is filled with establishments where we can stop for a drink. In this space are the Casas Consistoriales, the former seat of the City Hall of Badajoz.

The Ermita de la Soledad is a 20th-century building. In its chapel is the figure of the Virgen de la Soledad, patroness of Badajoz. La Giraldilla is located next to this hermitage. It is a 20th-century building that replicates the lines of the Seville Giralda and was once the headquarters of some warehouses.

A walk along the banks of the Guadiana is one of the most pleasant activities to enjoy in Badajoz, as it is a perfect place for sports or simply to admire nature. The city also offers cultural sites such as the Extremadura and Ibero-American Museum of Contemporary Art (MEIAC), the Provincial Museum of Fine Arts, or the museum dedicated to the famous Carnival of Badajoz.

The leisure activities offered in Badajoz are varied. In addition to the numerous exhibitions hosted by the city's cultural centres, at the Aqua Badajoz water park, we can enjoy a fun day in the water. The San Juan Fair is held at the end of June, and for a week, the city is filled with lights, music, attractions, and a multitude of activities.

The cuisine of Extremadura is largely based on the Iberian pig. Its meat is famous as well as its excellent hams and cured meats. Moreover, dishes like migas pacenses or cheeses from Extremadura are other delights to enjoy in Badajoz.