La Morera offers a range of ways to explore: the Parish Church of San Lorenzo Mártir has unusual architectural proportions, while trails in the surrounding area lead to views of the valley, the Sierras and the landscape. There are also traces of rural heritage and a rich variety of plant life. This lets you focus on culture and nature according to your interests, rather than cramming every experience into a tightly scheduled itinerary.
The church and its architectural features
At San Lorenzo Mártir, the proportions of the presbytery and nave stand out: the presbytery is exceptionally large, while the nave is considerably smaller. The tower and portal add their own distinctive features. The tower is unfinished and has battlements and a simple bell structure; the plain portal is built of brick in the Mudéjar style. The proportions of the church interior are thus complemented by clearly described details of the building itself. Those interested in architecture will find several features here that can be considered separately.
Other heritage sites
There are cultural points of interest beyond the church, too. The surviving adobe buildings in La Morera are considered to be of ethnographic interest. The Noria de la Fontanilla is likewise classified as an object of ethnographic interest. A bridge of medieval origin is located on the road to Santa Marta. These examples differ in type and location: they range from buildings in La Morera to a structure on the road mentioned above. The condition and access to the noria may vary; if needed, check the arrangements before visiting.
The Olivo de la Tapada and the trails
The Olivo de la Tapada is listed in the official register of designated singular trees in Extremadura and is located within the municipality of La Morera. It is a singular tree protected by the Junta de Extremadura and lies within the Site of Community Importance “Sierra de María Andrés”. The tree can therefore be considered both in terms of its designation and its location within this protected area.
One route to the Olivo starts in La Morera and follows the Camino de los Hitos. Another route begins on Avenida de la Constitución, runs along Callejón del Corral del Conc and Calle Barrio de Salvaleón, and then heads east on a dirt track through the olive groves. There are also several signposted trails in the surrounding area, offering views of the valley around the village and the surrounding Sierras and landscapes. Trail conditions and accessibility may vary; check local information before setting out.
Plant life and getting there
Cañada de Sierra Calera is home to a rich plant community with several orchid species, including Orchis italica, Ophrys speculum, Orchis collina, Orchis papilionacea and Ophrys lutea. If observing plants is a priority, check locally for the best season, as opportunities for sightings vary throughout the year.
For a road journey from Badajoz, follow the N-432 to the junction near Santa Marta, then take the BA-098 to La Morera. Check current signage before setting out. When planning your trip, you can first decide whether you want your stay to focus more on architectural and historical highlights or on trails and nature observation.
Discover more destinations: Ribera Del Fresno, Aljucén, Benquerencia De La Serena, Burguillos, Fuente De Cantos, Montijo, Don Alvaro, Campanario
For the broader travel overview: Badajoz.
