Old Town of Cáceres
Extremadura
The Old Town of Cáceres, located in Extremadura, Spain, is a remarkably preserved historic walled city recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986. It showcases an extraordinary blend of Roman, Moorish, Northern Gothic, and Italian Renaissance architecture, with thirty Islamic period towers still standing, including the renowned Torre del Bujaco. The city’s origins trace back to prehistoric times, with archaeological evidence in the Maltravieso and El Conejar caves, and it was officially founded by the Romans in 25 BC as Norba Caesarina. The Old Town is divided by ancient walls into the intramuros (inside the walls) area, known as the Monumental City, and the extramuros (outside the walls) area, with the former preserving a medieval atmosphere free from modern intrusions. Key quarters within the Old Town include Santa María, home to the Cathedral of Santa María la Mayor and numerous palaces such as the Palacio de Carvajal and Golfines de Abajo, which hosted the Catholic Monarchs. The Plaza de San Jorge features important Baroque buildings like the Church of San Francisco Javier and the College of the Company of Jesus. The Old Town’s architectural richness and historical significance have made it a favored location for film and television productions, including scenes from Game of Thrones. Despite its status as a cultural and economic hub, the Old Town remains sparsely populated due to its monument-like nature and access restrictions. Visitors can explore a wealth of noble houses, religious buildings, and museums, immersing themselves in centuries of layered history and architectural styles.
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Astuce: The best time to visit the Old Town of Cáceres is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets for museums or guided tours in advance to avoid queues, especially during peak tourist seasons. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. Due to the pedestrian nature of the Old Town and vehicle restrictions, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Exploring early in the morning or late afternoon can provide a quieter experience and better lighting for photography.
Faits intéressants
- •The Old Town of Cáceres contains thirty Islamic period towers, with Torre del Bujaco being the most famous.
- •The city has evidence of human settlement dating back to the late Paleolithic period, notably in the Maltravieso Caves.
- •The Old Town served as a filming location for the TV series Game of Thrones, including the Museo de Cáceres and the Arco de la Estrella.
- •The Old Town is divided into intramuros and extramuros, with the former known as the Monumental City, preserving medieval urban fabric.
- •Several palaces in the Old Town, such as the Golfines de Abajo Palace, hosted the Catholic Monarchs during their visits.
Histoire
Cáceres was originally established as the Roman colony Norba Caesarina in 25 BC, strategically situated on a hill and fortified with walls.
After a period of abandonment during the Migration Period, the city was revitalized as a fortified settlement (ḥiṣn) during the Andalusian Islamic era.
The medieval walls and buildings largely date from this period and the subsequent Christian Reconquista.
The Old Town remained the core of Cáceres until the late 14th century when the extramuros neighborhood was founded following the consolidation of Christian rule.
Throughout the centuries, the area developed a rich architectural heritage, blending Roman foundations, Islamic fortifications, Gothic churches, and Renaissance palaces.
It was declared a Bien de Interés Cultural in 1949 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, ensuring its preservation and recognition as a cultural treasure.
Guide du lieu
Santa María Quarter
This quarter unites the Plaza de Santa María and Plaza de los Golfines, dominated by the Cathedral of Santa María la Mayor. It features numerous palaces and noble houses including the Palacio de Carvajal, Palacio de Hernando de Ovando, Episcopal Palace, and the Golfines de Abajo Palace, known for hosting the Catholic Monarchs.
Plaza de San Jorge18th century
Located in the heart of the walled city, this square is dominated by the Church of San Francisco Javier (Church of the Precious Blood) with its crypt and the Interpretation Center of the Holy Week of Cáceres. The Baroque College of the Company of Jesus and the House of the Becerra flank the square, along with the Garden of Cristina de Ulloa dedicated to the city's patron saint.
