Free walking tours in Zafra and what to see

Must-sees

Zafra has one of the most pleasant historic centres in Extremadura, and at its heart are two joined squares, the Plaza Grande and the Plaza Chica, surrounded by arcades. You pass between them through the Arquillo del Pan. In the Plaza Chica you can still see the rod used as a measure in the old market. It is a good place to sit on a terrace and watch town life.

The great monument is the Alcázar of the Dukes of Feria, a 15th-century fortified palace now run as a Parador. Visit too the collegiate church of La Candelaria, with an altarpiece by Zurbarán, and the convent of Santa Clara, which has a museum. Stroll along the busy shopping street of Calle Sevilla and look for the Puerta de Jerez, one of the old wall’s gates.

Free tours and guided visits

Zafra sometimes has free tours of the historic centre covering the squares, the alcázar and the collegiate church. Pre-booked guided visits are more common, though. Zafra is also a good base for trips around southern Badajoz: Jerez de los Caballeros, Fregenal de la Sierra or Llerena. Mérida is less than an hour’s drive away.

How long to spend

One day is enough to get to know Zafra at leisure. In the morning, walk the squares, Calle Sevilla and the collegiate church, and in the afternoon the convent of Santa Clara and the alcázar. If you come in early October you will coincide with the International Livestock Fair. With two or three days you can use it as a base for the area.

Where to stay

The best place to stay is the old town, around the Plaza Grande and Plaza Chica, where the best bars are and everything is on foot. Sleeping in the alcázar itself is a special option. During the October fair the town fills up, so book weeks ahead.