This medieval Spanish city has 24 Romanesque churches from the 12th century, more than any other place in Europe. The ancient walls overlook the Duero River valley.
Zamora rises above the Duero River in northwestern Spain, where you'll find 24 Romanesque churches from the 12th and 13th centuries scattered throughout its streets. Walk across the medieval stone bridge, explore the hilltop castle with its gardens, and time your visit for the elaborate Holy Week processions in spring, when thousands gather to watch the candlelit parades through the old town.
Exploring Zamora's Romanesque Churches
The 12th-century Cathedral dominates Zamora's skyline with its distinctive dome. You can visit daily from 10:00 to 14:00 and 17:00 to 20:00. As you walk through the old town, stop at Santa MarÃa Magdalena to examine its intricate 13th-century southern façade, carved with biblical scenes. San Juan de Puerta Nueva's circular stained glass window lights up its interior during afternoon hours. At Santiago de los Caballeros, plaques mark the spot where El Cid received his knighthood.
Medieval Fortifications and Structures
Walk along three concentric city walls built between the 11th and 13th centuries, which still encircle much of the historic center. The Castle sits at the highest point of the city, its gardens open daily until sunset. Cross the 14th-century bridge with its 16 pointed arches - it's especially calm at sunrise when local runners and photographers gather.
Local Cuisine and Wine
Sample the region's sheep's milk cheese and Fuentesauco chickpeas at the central market, open Monday to Saturday until 14:00. Local restaurants prepare bacalao a la tranca (cod with garlic and paprika) and pulpo a la sanabresa (octopus in olive oil). During Easter, try dos y pingada - fried eggs with local ham. Save room for rebojo Zamorano, a dense bun perfect for dipping in coffee, and natillas almendradas, a creamy almond custard.
Getting Around
The compact center makes walking easy - you can reach most churches and the castle within 15-20 minutes on foot. Many central streets are pedestrian-only. AVE high-speed trains connect to Madrid in 1 hour 20 minutes. Regular trains run to Santiago de Compostela. Buses depart from the central station to Salamanca (1 hour), Benavente (45 minutes), and several international destinations.
Nearby Excursions
At Sanabria Lake Natural Park, 50 km north of Zamora, join boat tours on Spain's largest glacial lake. The medieval village of Fermoselle sits above the Arribes del Duero Natural Park, where you can walk through terraced vineyards and look down into river gorges that drop 200 meters deep.
