Valverde de Leganés lies between Olivenza and Almendral, close to the Piedra Aguda Reservoir. Travelers who want to consider nature and culture when choosing a destination will find plenty to explore here, from an expansive reservoir landscape to churches and historic buildings. Local produce and recurring festivals are also part of the town’s character.
Reservoir, Shoreline and Natural Landmark
The Piedra Aguda Reservoir was built in the 1960s. Its dam is 30 meters high; it has a capacity of 16.3 hm³ and a flooded area of 250 hectares. Eucalyptus trees, holm oaks and cork oaks grow along the shore. The scale of the structure is thus complemented by specific shoreline vegetation. The reservoir is about two kilometers from Valverde de Leganés and is surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and numerous batholiths.
From the Piedra del Niño Dios rock by the reservoir, you can enjoy views across the entire Llanos de Olivenza region. Another natural highlight is the Almendro Real (Prunus amygdaloides), designated an “Árbol Singular” for its biometric characteristics, beautiful growth and spectacular blossoms. The turnoff to an agricultural track is on the road from Valverde de Leganés toward Táliga, about one kilometer along on the right, and runs through an olive-growing area. If you plan to use this track, it is advisable to check local conditions beforehand.
The PR-BA 160 La Cocosa route can also start in Valverde de Leganés; it is suitable for hiking and cycling. Starting points may be updated and route conditions can change, so check the latest trail information beforehand.
Architectural history in varying states of preservation
The parish church of San Bartolomé Apóstol has a Latin cross-shaped floor plan, a Late Gothic style and ribbed vaults. The Palacio de Monroy has a different story today: only two walls remain. The palace was remodeled in the second half of the 16th century. The building history and its present state of preservation therefore offer two distinct points of reference when choosing which of the town’s historic buildings to visit.
The dating of the Real Pósito is partly uncertain: it was probably built in the 16th century. According to the inscription, its granite-clad façade dates from the 18th century and bears the year 1746. The Convento de la Madre de Dios, near Valverde de Leganés, is 2.5 kilometers from the town and was founded in 1540. These different dates help place the buildings in time without conflating their individual histories.
Festivals, routes and local cuisine
Las Diablas takes place every year on the weekend around August 15. The festival includes fireworks and flares, as well as a final battle in which angels defeat evil. During the festival, theater, films, concerts, exhibitions and night walks in the area around town are also on offer. Exact dates and the program may vary from year to year, so check the information for the year of your visit.
A festival celebrating the figure of the shepherd and the traditions of transhumance is recognized as a festival of regional tourist interest. At Vive la Trashumancia, a transhumance route begins with a traditional shepherd’s breakfast of Extremaduran migas. For recurring events, too, it is worth checking the date and program for the relevant year in advance.
Local cuisine in Valverde de Leganés includes olive oil, Pitarra wine and olives. These products add a culinary dimension to the town’s natural and cultural attractions, which you can take into account when exploring the area.
Discover more destinations: Puebla De Sancho Pérez, La Zarza, Salvaleón, Palomas, Herrera Del Duque, Zalamea De La Serena, Orellana La Vieja, Monesterio.
For the full travel guide: Badajoz.
