Caceres Spain
The origins of Caceres can be traced back over 25,000 years
to the times of cavemen from the Palaeolithic age. The rich, historical
diversity of Caceres involves such diverse cultures as
Celts, Romans, Visigoths, and Arabs.
Because Caceres has such a diverse history this has resulted in the city having
a wonderfully eclectic amount of historical attractions. The city is centred on
the 150m long Plaza Mayor which is right next to the Ciudad Monumental
where the majority of the finest historical sights are to be found. This is a
place to visit by day when you can enter the main attractions and by night just
to marvel at the illuminated buildings.
As you stroll into the walled Ciudad Monumental from Plaza Mayor you'll enter
the Plaza de Santa Maria where Caceres' 15th century Gothic cathedral
stands. Look out for the modern statue of San Pedro de
Alcantra near the Palacio de Mayoralgo. A little further into this area is
the charming Plaza de San Jorge which is home to the wonderful Iglesia de San
Francisco Javier.
Sadly, most of Caceres' Roman heritage was detroyed by the invasion of the
barbaric Visigoths so the Arco del Cristo along Cuesta de Marques from
Plaza San Jorge is all that remains from the Roman period.
Two more main squares make up the Ciudad Monumental, Plaza de San Mateo
and Plaza de las Veletas where you'll find more fascinating buildings.
The Palacio de los Golfines is also worth a visit, this was where Franco
set up his base during the early days of the civil war. The Casa Mudejar
is one of few remaining buildings displaying Moorish influence.
One of the most arresting sights in Caceres, if only for the fact that it's
one of the only remnants from the religious battles of the time, is the Palacio
de los Caceres-Ovando. One part of Caceres' history is when the Catholic ruler,
Queen Isabella, tried to destroy all things that did not fit her beliefs, and
thankfully, the tower and the battlements of Caceres-Ovando did not fall to this
crusade.
The four star
Parador of Caceres is a fine place to stay housed in a 14th century palace.
A fine selection of charming
Caceres hotels are also available. A charming alternative is to try one of
the rural cottages outside the city such as the Hacienda de Cuacos which has
wonderful views of the Sierra de Gredos mountains.
There are plenty simple restaurants scattered around the edge of the Plaza Mayor
with outdoor terraces, Meson Arcos is as good as any. For bettwr quality
dining head for Meson El Asador (c/ Moret, 34) for superb roast meat dishes or
for something more stylish reserve a table in the courtyard of the Restaurante
Torre de Sande (c/ de los Condes, 3). Palacio del Vino (c/ Ancha, 4) in the
historic quarter is another good choice for intimate dining.
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