Experiencing Extremadura is a journey into the heart of old Spain, from the country's finest Roman ruins to mysterious medieval cities and ancient monasteries. Extremadura is famous for its picturesque countryside and villages, rich historical sites, stunning architecture, winding streets and breathtaking scenery. This region was once an important part of the Roman Empire. Extremadura is a region in southwestern Spain that borders Portugal but was once an important part of the Roman Empire. There's so much to see and so surprisingly little known that I'm so excited to discover a real place. A treasure of Europe.
Despite being Spain's most overlooked region for international travelers, Extremadura is rich in history, stunning architecture, and the perfect destination for nature lovers. In fact, it is proud of her three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Merida's impressive roman ruins, Caceres A magnificent medieval city, Guadalupe's Royal Abbey. There are also two of his biosphere reserves: Monfragüe Natural Park and Tajo International Natural Park. Scenic hiking and bird watching are especially popular here.
Did you know that Spain is the world's largest producer of olive oil? But surprisingly, Italy sells more Spanish olive oil than Spain. Olive oil from Extremadura is prized for its richness and quality. During my stay in Extremadura, I witnessed the entire olive oil production process and it was very interesting. Spain has very strict regulations regarding the production of olive oil. This system ensures that the olive oil labeled Extremadura is produced in that specific region and complies with the highest standards and quality requirements. Families here have been making their own private olive oils in their homes for generations, insisting that their olive trees produce the best olives. This is an ongoing friendly match.
If you're looking for a charming and unique boutique hotel surrounded by incredible natural beauty, look no further. The place to go is Aqua et Oleum (Latin for “water and oil”). Our first stop in Extremadura was this beautiful, historic boutique hotel nestled among olive groves in the charming Spanish countryside. I was immediately hooked and found out that Dallas businessman Joseph Shortell is the owner and owner of this four-star luxury hotel, artfully built in an old olive mill full of character and history. I learned that he was a visionary and was fascinated by him. What a vision! Aqua Eoleum's unique atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for those interested in a luxury vacation in a relatively less touristy region of Spain, especially those who love olives and olive oil. It's one of the most unique places I've ever stayed. The food prepared at Aqua et Oleum is wonderful and fresh. The service, staff and hospitality are all very professional, warm and welcoming.
Extremadura is also known as a special spot where you can enjoy breathtaking starry skies. There are many areas that have been certified as Starlight tourist destinations. This region is home to some of Europe's best space tourism attractions. We witnessed this during our stay at Aqua e Oleum. Professional astronomers were brought in there with huge telescopes and commercial equipment. The sky was crystal clear and trillions of stars and many planets were very bright and easily visible. We had great views and learned about the solar system. It was a wonderful celestial sight!
Another fun discovery was the parador. These are some of the finest hotels in Spain. These Spanish paradors are hotels housed in ancient castles, palaces, fortresses, monasteries, monasteries, and old country retreats. These state-run hotels are classified as three to five stars, but offer the luxury of a modern hotel and a wonderfully unique environment. These walls have stood for centuries and are deeply woven into Spain's history. Currently, he has seven paradors in Extremadura.
In the Extremadura countryside, wild Iberian pigs can be seen roaming and feeding on acorns from oak groves. These pigs are captured and used to make a popular Iberian ham called “Jamon Ibérico”. It is made from high quality Iberian pork from Spain. And the best pigs and the most delicious meat can be found in Extremadura. In fact, the entire region is a paradise for foodies looking for great farm-to-table gastronomy. Wine lovers can explore the burgeoning wine scene. Extremadura produces great wines that pair perfectly with the local cuisine. I was surprised to learn that there are 21 Michelin-starred restaurants in Extremadura. We have eaten at many restaurants, but this wonderful culinary experience will never be forgotten.
The cities of Mérida, Cáceres and Placencia rank among the most beautiful and best-preserved historic villages in Spain. Many of Extremadura's towns have a fairytale feel, with fairytale castles, medieval churches, Gothic cathedrals, and ancient monasteries that look like something out of Game of Thrones. In fact, many scenes from the TV series Game of Thrones were actually filmed throughout Extremadura.
I was surprised to learn that this beautiful part of Spain is home to a whopping 27 castles. There are so many castles in Extremadura that you're bound to see a few during your trip. We found them everywhere, from imposing hilltops to lush countryside and even town centres. Some castles still have imposing external walls, some have impressive towers, and others have fairytale-like towers. It was a very surreal sight.
The historic city of Cáceres, known as the “City of 1001 Shields,'' is a must-see. I couldn't believe my eyes. I never expected Caceres to be this grand and huge. I felt like a time traveler as I walked through the many very narrow cobblestone streets. Cáceres is an immaculate medieval town surrounded by mansions, Renaissance palaces, and churches crowned with giant storks' nests. Get your camera ready and let's capture one of the most beautiful historic towns in Spain. It's easy to see why Caceres is a World Heritage City.
Mérida is an authentic Roman city and another World Heritage Site that still thrives today. This is a destination that unexpectedly brings the old Roman Empire back to life. The huge Roman theater is still in operation 2,000 years later. On summer nights, the International Classical Theater Festival is held. As I walked around Mérida, I was surprised to see more Roman ruins around every corner. It seemed endless and incredible. Throughout the city there are many Roman structures reminiscent of its past, including temples, amphitheaters, circuses, baths, aqueducts, and arches. A visit to the National Museum of Roman Art is the perfect way to end your visit to the Roman Empire in Mérida. Very impressive! I hope to visit this charming city again in the summer. Every June, the “Emerita Luvdica” festival takes place, when the streets of Mérida return to the hands of the Romans and gladiators, and everyone dresses in their finest Roman costumes.
Placencia is one of the larger towns in Extremadura and is well worth a visit. The main attraction here is the stunning Placencia Cathedral. When I first saw this cathedral, my jaw dropped. Words cannot express how wonderful this church is. One of the things that makes this church so unique is that it is actually two cathedrals in one. Residents of Placencia simply refer to this church as the Old Church or the New Church. Well, both are very old by most standards. The “old church” was built in the 12th-13th century. What locals call the “new church” is actually built inside an old church, which he dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries. This means that it is a perfect blend of Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance styles.
Everyone should experience Extremadura! This region of Spain has everything I look for in a destination. Stunning architecture, fascinating historic sites, rugged natural beauty, authentic cultural experiences, excellent accommodations, delicious food, wonderfully welcoming people, and less crowds. Extremadura is truly a glimpse into the past, full of treasures and secrets to discover.
Extremadura: Attractions Best sightseeing plans | spain.info Home – Aqua and Oleum
