Spain Guide
Extremadura
Once neglected and overlooked by many visitors, Extremadura has established itself on the tourist trail – and deservedly so. This harsh environment was the cradle of the conquistadores, men who opened up a new world for the Spanish empire. Remote before and forgotten since, Extremadura enjoyed a brief golden age when its heroes returned with their gold to live in splendour. Trujillo, the birthplace of Pizarro, and Cáceres were built with conquistador wealth, the streets crowded with an array of perfectly preserved and very ornate mansions of returning empire builders.
Then there is Mérida, the most completely preserved Roman city in Spain, and the monasteries of Guadalupe and Yuste, the one fabulously wealthy thanks to a revered icon of the Virgin that has attracted pilgrims for the past five hundred years, the other rich in imperial memories. Finally, for some wild scenery and superb fauna, northern Extremadura has the Parque Natural de Monfragüe, where even the most casual birdwatcher can look up to see eagles and vultures circling the cliffs.
Highlights
1 Trujillo A visit to the birthplace of Pizarro is worthwhile for the view of the town from the Cáceres road alone.
2 Cáceres Wander around the atmospheric historic core at night.
3 The Roman ruins in Mérida A stunning array of Roman buildings and artefacts.