The northern part of the Alcazaba offers panoramic views over Badajoz. At the same time, the city's fortifications and museums tell of different historical and cultural themes. Puerta de Palmas and Puente de Palmas provide distinctive architectural features; Carnaval adds its own festive tradition to the picture.

The Alcazaba and its construction history

The Alcazaba de Badajoz was originally built in 875 by Abd-al-Ramman Ibn Marwan, “El Yilliqui.” Its present-day form is largely the result of a major renovation by the Almohads in the 12th century. Its original construction and later transformation therefore belong to different historical periods. Visitors interested in the building's development can keep this distinction in mind during their visit. Panoramic views over the city can be enjoyed from the northern part of the Alcazaba.

Fortifications from several periods

A route along Badajoz's fortifications can begin at Ramón y Cajal Street, Avenida Joaquín Costa or Ronda del Pilar. It passes through the city's Arab, medieval and modern-era defensive structures. The Portuguese Restoration War (1640–1668) highlights another aspect of the history of the city's defenses: earlier fortifications could no longer withstand attacks by heavy enemy artillery. The different periods provide a historical framework for the route, without reducing the structures to a single phase of construction. Check local access conditions for the route before your visit.

The Hornabeque is also a place worth visiting: it is open for free visits. Check the current access regulations before your visit.

Carnaval and the city's history in its museums

Every year, Carnaval de Badajoz fills the city's streets with costumes, choreography, murgas, comparsas, choirs and floats or other festive displays. The Museo del Carnaval de Badajoz is housed in La Poterna, a historic building. There, residents exhibit elaborate costumes, musical compositions, texts and festive displays. The recurring expressions of Carnaval and the contributions of the people who create them thus offer distinct ways to explore festive culture.

For a broader perspective on Badajoz's history, visit the Museo de la Ciudad “Luís de Morales,” which covers the city's history from prehistoric times to its Islamic founding. This takes the focus beyond a single festive theme to the city's long history. Visitors choosing what to see based on their interests can therefore distinguish between festive culture and a historical overview.

Puerta de Palmas, the bridge and the gardens

Puerta de Palmas is a fortified gate opposite Puente de Palmas. Two cylindrical, crenellated towers flank the gate. Puente de Palmas is a stone bridge in the Herrera style, built toward the end of the 16th century. It follows a straight route, rises slightly in the middle and is almost 600 metres long overall. The gate and bridge can therefore be described in terms of their distinct architectural forms: a fortified gateway on one hand, and a long stone bridge with a slight rise on the other.

The Jardines de la Galera also offer panoramic views over Badajoz. They border the wall of the Arab Alcazaba and lie beside Torre de Espantaperros, also known as Atalaya, as well as Semibaluarte de San Antonio, which forms part of the bastioned city wall. This places the gardens between the two fortified areas. The view from here and the view from the northern part of the Alcazaba are two documented options to consider when planning your sightseeing.

Planning your visits

From Fuerte de San Cristóbal, you can enjoy views of the Guadiana River, the bridges of Badajoz and the Arab Alcazaba. Visitors can explore the fort; check the current visiting arrangements before you go. For information about visiting the interior of Puerta de Palmas, the Casas Mudéjares tourist office can advise on visiting hours. It also provides information to help visitors understand the buildings and their surroundings.

When searching, check the location of the hotels you are considering against the places you personally plan to visit.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Campomanes, Puebla De Alcocer, Entrerríos, Fuente Del Maestre, Casas de Don Pedro, Magacela, La Roca De La Sierra, Santa Marta.

For the main travel overview: Badajoz.