Badajoz is situated in the Spanish region of Extremadura, close to the Portuguese border. The city's position on the border with Portugal as a frontier fortress has given it a stormy history. It has been besieged during many different wars and even the cathedral has the appearance of a fortress, with its massive walls.
An interesting construction is the 12th-century Almohad monument. This is also known as the Watchtower or Alpéndiz Tower. It has an octagonal shape. The lower parts of the tower are solid to aid in its defence, whilst the two upper chambers are where the lookouts were housed. At the time the area was in the hands of the Christians it would have had a bell added to it.
A characteristic the cathedral shares with many of the buildings in Badajoz is its fortress-like construction. A 13th century edifice, it has battlements and a high square tower, with large windows at the second level. It has three entrance doors; the main one is that of San Juan Bautista, which carries the saint’s image. Inside, it is planned like a basilica and has the usual three naves, a sanctuary and transept.
The Provincial Archaeological Museum in Badajoz is housed in an impressive Moorish fort called the Alcazaba. The Alacazabar is more of a fortified palace than just a military fortress, as it was where the Moorish Caliphs of the area managed their affairs. A well-known attraction in the Alacazabar is the octagonally shaped Tower of Espantaperros. The tower was built by the Almohads in the 12th century, and if you can manage the climb to the top of the battlements, you will be rewarded with panoramic views. The fort was declared a Historic Artistic Monument in 1931.
Another of the well-preserved sites of Badajoz is the 16th century Puente de las Palmas which crosses the Guardiana river in the middle of the city.
Don't expect to find many haute cuisine specialities in Badajoz, as the local diet is based on staple fare such as fresh fish and ham. The area is becoming known for its growing wine production and it has some excellent local wines.
