The Roman province of Lusitania was located here. Merida preserves the remains of life at that time. To the south of the Duero River, the limits of the old Kingdom of León, the harshest end. Its mountains marked a distance from the Muslims during the Reconquest. Later, many of its inhabitants decided to embark on the adventure of the New World. Hernán Cortés and Pizarro stand out.
In the middle of the 20th century, Extremadura lost many inhabitants who fled to the cities to prosper. Some stayed and were engaged in black marketeering, smuggling basic necessities across the border with Portugal.
Acorn-fed Iberian ham is obtained from pigs that wander through the Dehesa de Extremadura, an exclusive Mediterranean forest of holm and cork oaks. They buy this product even in Japan! Pimentón de la Vera is the most characteristic condiment of Spanish cuisine. Peppers, smoke-dried and ground, whose flavor, color, and aroma enhance any food around them.
Torta del Casar is a type of sheep cheese with a thin crust and a creamy core. The lamb stew, made in an iron pot over a fire, is a traditional and comforting recipe for meat stews. Extremadura, the pantry of Spain!
Between hills and reservoirs, a place so far from everything and uninhabited that it is known as Extremadura’s Siberia. Cerro Masatrigo is a small Mount Fuji, a perfect natural pyramid surrounded by a road. The biggest and most beautiful roundabout in Spain!
Next to Portugal, the region of Sierra de Gata is, due to its natural isolation, a territory whose towns preserve their traditional essence. This architectural treasure is unknown to the general public, a pearl to be discovered. Trevejo’s old Muslim fortress from the 9th century is an ideal watchtower with panoramic views.
Cerro Masatrigo
Spanish Guitar
Bellota Ham
Traditional Hoe
Torta del Casar
In spring, the cherry blossoms in Valle del Jerte offer a unique mountain postcard. The Extremaduran summer destination is the eight freshwater beaches with blue flags. Early fall is the time to hit all the trails without the heat and crowds. Enjoy!
Badajoz Airport connects with Madrid and Barcelona. From Seville and Lisbon, as well as direct from Madrid, you can assess getting to Extremadura depending on the area to visit. Our recommendation is always a road trip to enjoy a complete experience.
