Calera de León, located in the province of Badajoz, Extremadura, is a town that combines history, heritage, and nature. This municipality offers visitors a rich variety of monuments, hiking trails, and traditional gastronomy that reflects the essence of the region.
MAIN MONUMENTS
The main attraction of Calera de León is undoubtedly the Monastery of Tentudía. This monastery-fortress stands at the top of the Sierra de Tentudía, at 1,104 meters above sea level, making it the highest point in the province of Badajoz. Its origins date back to the 13th century, when, according to legend, the Master of the Order of Santiago, Pelay Pérez Correa, asked the Virgin Mary to stop the day during a battle against the Moors, exclaiming: “Santa María, detén tu día!” (Holy Mary, stop your day!).
After the miracle, a hermitage was built in honor of the Virgin, which later became the current monastery. The building stands out for its Gothic-Mudejar architecture and houses an altarpiece of tiles created by the master Niculoso Pisano in the 16th century. Additionally, its Mudejar-style cloister and the panoramic views it offers make it a must-visit site.
Another monument of interest is the Parish Church of Santiago Apóstol, located in the town center. This 15th-century temple, also built in the Gothic-Mudejar style, reflects the influence of the Order of Santiago in the region. Its interior houses various religious artworks and is notable for its simple yet elegant architectural beauty.
TRADITIONAL DISHES
The gastronomy of Calera de León is a reflection of the traditional Extremaduran cuisine, characterized by simple yet flavorful dishes. Some of the most representative dishes include:
–Cocido Extremeño: a hearty stew made with chickpeas, various meats, sausages, and vegetables from local farms. This dish is especially comforting during the colder months.
–Gazpacho Extremeño: a variation of the traditional Andalusian gazpacho, but thicker and more filling, making it ideal for hot days.
–Iberian ham and sausages: thanks to the free-range pigs raised in the local meadows (dehesas), the cured meats and Iberian hams from the area are of exceptional quality.
–Migas Extremeñas: a rustic dish made with stale bread, garlic, olive oil, and accompanied by fried pork belly (torreznos), chorizo, or sardines. Originally a shepherd’s meal, it is now a local delicacy enjoyed by both residents and visitors.
HIKING ROUTES
Calera de León is a hiker’s paradise, offering several trails that allow visitors to explore the region’s natural and historical richness.
–Monastery of Tentudía route: one of the most popular routes, this trail starts in the town and climbs up to the Monastery of Tentudía. The round-trip route is approximately 10 km and passes through Mediterranean forests and dehesas, offering spectacular views along the way.
–Barrancos route: this 5 km circular route begins in Plaza de España in Calera de León. The trail takes hikers through beautiful natural landscapes, including the Ardila River, and provides opportunities to admire the local flora and fauna.
–Vía de la Plata route: for those seeking a more challenging experience, the Vía de la Plata Route follows an ancient Roman road, connecting Calera de León with other nearby towns. This trail is ideal for those who want to combine history with nature in one journey.
TRAVEL TIPS:
- Best time to visit: Spring and Autumn are ideal for hiking, as the temperatures are mild. In winter, the Monastery of Tentudíacan offer stunning views withfog or even snow.
- Places to visit around:
- Fregenal de la Sierra (15 km away), picturesque town with a Templar castle, where the bullring is uniquely integrated within the castle walls.
- Jerez de los Caballeros (40 km away), famous for its spectacular historic center and its strong ties to the Order of the Temple.
- Zafra (45 km away), known as the “Little Seville”, this charming town boasts a beautiful old quarterand theAlcázar of the Dukes of Feria.
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