Historic Old Town of Cáceres, UNESCO World Heritage
The Old Town of Cáceres, declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1986, is a living medieval and Renaissance gem. Within its walls lies a maze of cobblestone streets, noble plazas, defensive towers, and palaces—one of the world’s most complete historic centers.
Plaza Mayor & Bujaco Tower
Begin at the Plaza Mayor, once the market forum and gateway to the monumental core. Opposite the town hall stands the Bujaco Tower, an Arab relic built on Roman foundations guarding the northwest flank.
Arch of the Star & Plaza de Santa María
Ascend the steps beside the tower and pass through the Arch of the Star, the main gate. A few steps on brings you to Plaza de Santa María, dominated by the 13th-century Co-Cathedral, a jewel of Romanesque-Gothic transition.
Wall-side Adarves
Stroll the adarves—lanes running along the wall—especially Padre Rosalío, Santa Ana, and the Star. Their steep slopes, narrow passages, and cobbles evoke the city’s medieval pulse.
Palaces & Tower Houses
- Carvajal Tower House: fortified residence with elegant Renaissance balconies.
- Golfines de Abajo Palace: plateresque façade where Hernán Cortés once stayed.
- Pozos Tower: ancient elevated cistern tower overseeing the alleys.
- Church of San Francisco Javier: late Baroque church in lively San Jorge square.
Visitor Tips
- Footwear: wear comfortable shoes for uneven cobbles and steep hills.
- Suggested route: Plaza Mayor → Bujaco Tower → Arch of the Star → Santa María → adarves → palaces.
- Hours: many monuments offer guided tours and summer night visits.
- Photography: sunsets highlight the golden stone and arch shadows.
Explore the Monumental City of Cáceres and be charmed by its blend of legend, architecture, and urban life, where every corner hides centuries of history.
How to get there
Decimal: 39.475000°, -6.371389°
DMS: 39°28'30" N, 6°22'17" O
