This historic Spanish city houses a Moorish fortress and Gothic cathedral. It's an industrial hub and home to the University of Extremadura, founded in 1973.
Badajoz, the largest city in Extremadura, sits on the banks of the Guadiana River near the Portuguese border. This location has shaped its character, evident in the 12th-century Alcazaba fortress and the Renaissance-era Puerta de Palmas gate. In Plaza Alta, you'll see distinctive red and white façades, while Parque de Castelar offers a calm green space. The city's culinary scene includes local specialties such as patatera sausage, blending Spanish and Portuguese influences.
Exploring the Alcazaba
The 12th-century Alcazaba stands out in Badajoz's skyline. This Moorish fortress, one of the largest in Spain, gives you views of the city and the Guadiana River. Inside, you'll find the Palace of the Dukes of Roca, which now houses the Archaeological Museum. The museum contains artifacts from prehistoric times through the Roman and Visigothic periods. Look for the Torre Espantaperros, the most prominent tower of the Alcazaba, which inspired Seville's Torre del Oro.
Strolling Through the Old Town
Begin your walk at Plaza de la Soledad, where you can see the Ermita de la Soledad church and La Giraldilla, a replica of Seville's Giralda tower. Continue to Plaza Alta, a 17th-century square with red and white façades. Nearby, you'll find the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, built in the 13th century. Its thick walls and small windows reflect Badajoz's history of conflicts. Inside, you can see Renaissance artworks and Flemish tapestries.
Parks and Green Spaces
For a change of pace, head to Parque de Castelar. This park has kiosks, tiled benches, and a 16th-century church. You can take an afternoon stroll or have a picnic here. Another green space is the Jardines de la Galera, located within the Alcazaba walls. These gardens sit amidst Moorish ruins, offering a unique historical setting.
Local Cuisine and Wine
Badajoz's cuisine incorporates both Spanish and Portuguese influences due to its border location. Try the patatera, a sausage made with pork, mashed potato, paprika, and Iberian ham. Other local dishes include hare and partridge. You can pair your meal with wines from the Ribera del Guadiana denomination, produced in the surrounding region. Many restaurants around Plaza de la Soledad and Plaza Alta serve traditional Extremaduran dishes.
Festivals and Events
If you visit in February or March, you can experience the Carnival of Badajoz, one of Spain's major carnival celebrations. You'll see parades, costumes, and hear music throughout the city. In June, the Feria de San Juan takes place in Badajoz for a week. This fair honors San Juan Bautista and is one of the largest festivals in Extremadura. You can see traditional dress, watch flamenco dancing, and taste local food and drink.
Day Trips from Badajoz
From Badajoz, you can explore other parts of Extremadura. Mérida, about 60 kilometers away, has Roman ruins, including a theater and an amphitheater. The UNESCO World Heritage city of Cáceres, with its medieval old town, is about 90 kilometers from Badajoz. You can visit both cities in a day trip from Badajoz.
