To experience rural tourism in the province of Cáceres is a must at least once in a lifetime. However, your experience will be noticeably higher if beginning visiting Valencia de Alcántara, a town that has been attributed the title of “Muy noble, antigua y leal Villa” (Very noble, ancient and loyal Villa).
Valencia de Alcántara is a bordering town with Portugal and is also part of the Tagus International Nature Reserve. In the urban area, there are numerous references to the different cultures and peoples that have inhabited this place.
The 41 dolmens that can be found in Valencia de Alcántara proves it. They are authentic relics that form prehistoric interments dating back to the Paleolithic period. We will also find here remains of the Romans and the Visigoths, who followed the former settlements.
To take a stroll in Valencia de Alcántara means to visit areas that have an interesting history, such as the beautiful Jewish-Gothic Quarter, which has been declared a Site of Historic and Artistic Interest. Marked pointed ancient palaces and houses that have been very well preserved can be contemplated in this area. But a must on your visit undoubtedly is the synagogue.
Valencia de Alcántara also has many christian monuments, such as the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Rocamador church, which houses some works of renowned artists, such as José de Churriguera. It has also been declared a Monument of Historic and Artistic Interest, hence it is considered one of the cultural emblems of Cáceres.
During the 16th century, two symbols of Christianism were built in Valencia de Alcántara: the Santa Clara Convent and the Ermita de Los Remedios chapel.
But this is the outset only. Valencia de Alcántara has still many places to visit, such as the castle of Castillo Fortaleza, the Town Hall, the Palacio del Gobernador palace, or the fountain in the Gregorio Bravo square, where you will also come across the tourist office, in case you need detailed information about the places you cannot miss.
For lovers of nature, Valencia de Alcántara has also many natural places worth visiting in its surroundings. You will find lots of hiking routes scattered in this area that leading to singular spots such as a granite rock area and completely covered with moss, decorating each of its corners.
Visiting Valencia de Alcántara during the festivities will enable you to delight in its most lively tradition, such as the Jornadas Medievales Boda Regia, an authentic feast celebrated all over the town in memory of the wedding of the daughter of the Catholic Monarchs, which took place in Valencia de Alcántara. During this weekend, there are got up numerous market stalls and concerts. Other characteristic festivities of this region are the celebration of “Los Mayos” or “San Isidro Labrador”.
As in every festivity, traditional gastronomy is essential. Migas (toasted breadcrumbs accompanied by meat and vegetables), gazpacho extremeño (cold tomato and bread soup) or a delicious lamb stew known here as chanfaina are the traditional dishes you cannot leave without trying, even if you’re visiting this during its festivities.
Welcome to Valencia de Alcántara!
