In Berzocana, prehistoric rock art, a Gothic church and a protected landscape come together. When planning a visit, it is important to consider the different trail conditions: the Ruta a las pinturas rupestres de Berzocana is short but demanding. The Parque Sierra de Berzocana trail network includes up to five recommended routes. The church, interpretation centre and festival traditions add further aspects of the town’s history to its focus on landscape and archaeology.
Rock paintings and trails
The Ruta a las pinturas rupestres de Berzocana starts on the CC-22.4 road between Solana and Berzocana, about two kilometres from Berzocana. It leads to three rock shelters with rock paintings at Canchos de las Sábanas. The route is described as short but demanding: steep inclines and sections with loose stones are part of the trail. The first section follows a well-maintained country track through a mixed forest of Pyrenean oaks, cork oaks and chestnut trees. If you plan to take this route, bear the inclines and loose ground in mind when choosing your trail, and check the trail conditions before setting out.
The Parque Sierra de Berzocana is a Zona de Especial Protección de Aves and a Geosite in the Geopark. Its trail network offers up to five recommended routes. Another natural landmark is the Roble de la Nava, which has been on Extremadura’s list of outstanding trees since 2004. These landscape and nature features are distinct from the specific course of the rock art route: the route information identifies its starting point, destination and demanding trail conditions, while the information about the park concerns its larger trail network and protected status.
Archaeology and architectural history
The rock paintings in the municipality include the three rock shelters along the route, as well as Risquillo de Paulino. Their depictions date from the Chalcolithic to the Bronze Age, approximately 4000 to 1000 BC. The Centro de Interpretación de la Arqueología del Geoparque displays archaeological remains from all historical periods. Exhibits include a replica of the gold torcs and grave goods; there is also a reconstructed cave with a video about rock paintings. Thus, the specific archaeological sites in the municipality are complemented by the broader archaeological context provided at the interpretation centre.
A separate look at the area’s architectural history leads to the Church of San Juan Bautista. This Gothic religious building was constructed in the 15th and 16th centuries; its main façade is defined by a Mudéjar tower. The relics of San Fulgencio and Santa Florentina are kept in the Capilla de los Santos. In 1977, the church was declared a national historic monument of national interest. Its architecture, the relics in its chapel and its historic designation are distinct aspects of the same building.
Festivals and practical information
The Fiesta del Ramo includes a solemn procession with images of Santa Florentina and San Fulgencio, as well as the reliquary. Its evening Ofertorio takes place in the Plaza Mayor, where attendees bid on the offerings. During the Fiesta de la Aparición, in some years and when the weather is suitable, a procession goes to the Cruz de los Santos at the foot of the Olivo de los Santos. Mass is followed by a family gathering with chocolate and churros. As this procession does not take place every year and depends on the weather, do not assume it will be a regular part of the programme; check the dates before travelling.
The Feria Sabores del Geoparque offers a different focus, showcasing cheese, cured meats, honey and jams. The Ruta a las Cuevas starts in the Plaza de Berzocana. By car, the described route follows the road to Solana and then a signposted track to the Casa Rural Finca de la Sierra; road conditions can change. Whether you are weighing up rock art, church architecture, local festivals or landscapes, there are several distinct attractions to help you plan a stay in Berzocana.
Discover more destinations: Madroñera, Grimaldo, Torrejón El Rubio, Caminomorisco, Torreorgaz, Villamiel, Membrío, Serrejón
For the wider travel overview: Cáceres.
