History and Culture
In this centrally located part of Spain, long regarded as one of the country’s poorest and least developed regions, the local population has always had to struggle to make a living. As early as the late Middle Ages, the people of Extremadura sought ways to secure their livelihoods and left this harsh and sparsely populated land in search of new opportunities elsewhere. The Spanish conquest of Central and South America was a direct result of this outward migration.
Extremadura has a rich and layered history: the Romans left their mark here, the Moors once ruled the region, and many of the conquistadors were born here — with far-reaching consequences. A visit to Trujillo, Guadalupe, Mérida, Alcántara, Plasencia and Cáceres will certainly leave a lasting impression on lovers of culture and history.
Trujillo — the city of the conquistadors — is built on a granite hill. Its castle towers above the town and offers phenomenal views of the surrounding countryside. The beautiful Plaza Mayor is considered one of the finest squares in Spain. Here stands the statue of Francisco Pizarro, conqueror of the Inca Empire.
Guadalupe — A visit to the monastery is not to be missed. Countless pilgrims have gone before you. Guadalupe is best known for the ‘Black Madonna of Guadalupe’, which has made the town an important place of pilgrimage for centuries.
Mérida — Founded in 25 BC, Mérida grew into one of the most important capitals of the Roman Empire. Many monuments from this period have been remarkably well preserved. For this reason, Mérida has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights include the Roman bridge, the Temple of Diana, Trajan’s Arch, the aqueduct, the Villa Mitreo with its magnificent mosaic floors, and the amphitheatre.
Alcántara: Here you will find one of the best-preserved Roman bridges in Spain.
Cáceres: This city is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its walled historic centre, with stately buildings and romantic streets, along with the cathedral, palaces and churches, still evokes the atmosphere of bygone times.
From Finca Las Abubillas, virtually all of the region’s cultural highlights are easy and quick to reach. Even a day trip to Salamanca, in the region of Castilla-León, is perfectly feasible from Finca Las Abubillas.
