Attractions and Places To See around Zarza La Mayor - Top 16
Best attractions and places to see around Zarza La Mayor include a rich blend of historical landmarks and captivating natural features within the Tajo Internacional Biosphere Reserve. This municipality in Cáceres, Extremadura, Spain, is situated near the Erjas River, which forms a natural border with Portugal. The area offers a variety of sites, from ancient castles and medieval structures to unique geological formations. Visitors can explore historical sites and natural landscapes that define this border region.
Best attractions and places to see around Zarza La Mayor
- The most popular attractions is Termas de Monfortinho, a facilities that lives from a thermal bath. This quiet place offers a relaxing experience for those seeking tranquility.
- Another must-see spot is Segura International Bridge, a historical bridge. This Roman bridge spans the Erjas river, marking the border between Spain and Portugal, and served as a crucial international crossing point.
- Visitors also love Peña Buraca (Canchal de los Ojos) and Medieval Tombs, a historical site. This granite rock formation features two distinctive holes and is recognized as an archaeological zone with nearby anthropomorphic tombs from medieval times.
- Zarza La Mayor is known for its historical sites, natural monuments, and cultural landmarks. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, including ancient fortifications, Roman traces, and unique natural features.
- The attractions around Zarza La Mayor are appreciated by the komoot community, with 4 photos available for these highlights.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Segura International Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
On the Portuguese side, it connects with a local road to reach the town of Segura, from which this bridge takes its name.
It was built in the Roman province of Lusitania to give continuity to the Roman road that connected Norba Caesarina (on the Via de la Plata) with the civitas Egitania (Idanha-a-Velha, Portugal) and with Bracara Augusta (Braga, Portugal), in order to save the Erjas river. This river marks the border line between Spain and Portugal, and the bridge serves as an international crossing between both countries.
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Peñafiel Castle of Zarza la Mayor
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The construction of the castle dates back to the 13th century. It was built on the remains of a fortress of Arab origin from the 9th century. King Alfonso IX conquered the fortress in 1212 and granted it to the Order of Alcántara, thus forming an important commandery.
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Peña Buraca (Canchal de los Ojos) and Medieval Tombs
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Termas de Monfortinho
Highlight • Rest Area
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Plaza Mayor and Church of San Andrés Apóstol, Zarza la Mayor
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On the Spanish side, the bridge is located in the municipality of Alcántara in the province of Cáceres. It is reached via the regional highway EX-207 from the nearby town of Piedras Albas. On the Portuguese side, it connects with a local road to reach the town of Segura, from which this bridge takes its name. It was built in the Roman province of Lusitania to give continuity to the Roman road that connected Norba Caesarina (on the Via de la Plata) with the civitas Egitania (Idanha-a-Velha, Portugal) and with Bracara Augusta (Braga, Portugal), in order to save the Erjas river. This river marks the border line between Spain and Portugal, and the bridge serves as an international crossing between both countries.
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Peñafiel Castle, also known as Racha Rachel Castle, is an old fortification located in the municipality of Zarza la Mayor, in the province of Cáceres. The construction of the castle dates back to the 13th century. It was built on the remains of a fortress of Arab origin from the 9th century. King Alfonso IX conquered the fortress in 1212 and granted it to the Order of Alcántara, thus forming an important commandery.
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Zarza la Mayor is a Spanish town and municipality, located in the province of Cáceres, in the autonomous community of Extremadura. It belongs to the judicial district of Cáceres and is the westernmost town in the community of Rivera de Fresnedosa. Furthermore, it is the only municipality in said community that has a border with Portugal, located four kilometers in a straight line from Salvaterra do Extremo.
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Border bridge over the Erjas river near the town of Segura.
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At the west end of the city, the Plaza Mayor is worth visiting as you head out of town on your walk to admire the Church of San Andrés Apóstol and the council building.
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Built during Muslim rule of the Iberian Peninsula on a strategic rock outcrop above the Ergas River on the border between Spain and Portugal, the Castle is a stunning site to visit that will transport you to another era.
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La Peña Buraca de Alcántara is already an Asset of Cultural Interest in Extremadura with the category of archaeological zone. La Peña Buraca, also known as Canchal de los Ojos, is the most representative element of this enclave that, even though it is very close to Piedras Albas, belongs to the municipality of Alcántara.
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It is a granite rock in the middle of a beautiful holm oak pasture with two holes that look like two mysterious cave eyes. Experts say that it is an ancient place of worship, ritual or burial, next to it there are several anthropomorphic tombs from medieval times and archaeological remains of remote origin have been found.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Zarza La Mayor?
Zarza La Mayor is rich in history. You can visit the ancient Peñafiel Castle of Zarza la Mayor, which dates back to the 13th century and was built on a 9th-century Arab fortress. The town also features the impressive Church of San Andrés Apóstol, an 18th-century Royal Silk Factory (now the Town Hall), and the medieval Fuente Conceja. Evidence of Roman history, including funerary stelae and road remnants, can also be found.
Are there any natural attractions or unique geological formations to see?
Yes, Zarza La Mayor is nestled within the Tajo Internacional Biosphere Reserve, offering stunning natural beauty. A notable geological feature is Peña Buraca (Canchal de los Ojos), a granite rock formation with two distinctive holes, recognized as an archaeological zone. The area also includes the protected Canchos de Ramiro, known for bird observation, and the scenic Erjas River canyon.
What is the significance of the Segura International Bridge?
The Segura International Bridge is a historical Roman bridge spanning the Erjas River. It served as a crucial international crossing point between Spain and Portugal, connecting ancient Roman roads and playing a vital role in the region's history and trade.
Are there opportunities for hiking or outdoor activities near Zarza La Mayor?
Absolutely. The region is ideal for rural and nature tourism. You can find numerous hiking trails, including popular routes like the Peñafiel Castle Trail, the Montón de Trigo route, and sections of the Cañada Real de Gata. For more detailed routes, explore the hiking guide around Zarza La Mayor.
Can I go cycling in the area?
Yes, Zarza La Mayor offers various cycling opportunities. There are several routes for both road cycling and touring bicycles, taking you through scenic landscapes and past historical sites. You can find detailed routes and guides for road cycling and general cycling around Zarza La Mayor.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in Zarza La Mayor?
Families can enjoy a relaxing day at Termas de Monfortinho, a quiet place centered around thermal baths. The Plaza Mayor and Church of San Andrés Apóstol in the town center also offer a pleasant area for a stroll and to experience local culture.
What is the Tajo Internacional Biosphere Reserve known for?
The Tajo Internacional Biosphere Reserve, which encompasses Zarza La Mayor, is renowned for its exceptional natural beauty and biodiversity. It's an excellent destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers, offering protected spaces like Canchos de Ramiro, which are crucial for bird observation.
Are there any prehistoric or Roman remains to see?
Yes, the municipality has significant prehistoric and Roman traces. You can find prehistoric remains such as the Pata de Buey dolmen and the Castro de Las Moreras, a Bronze Age Vettonian hillfort. Additionally, remnants of a Roman road and funerary stelae provide insight into the area's Roman past.
What cultural landmarks are there in the town center?
The heart of Zarza La Mayor features the historic Plaza Mayor and Plaza del Rollo, which are central to the town's character. The impressive Church of San Andrés Apóstol, built between the 15th and 16th centuries, is a prominent cultural landmark. The Royal Silk Factory, an 18th-century building, now serves as the Town Hall.
What do visitors enjoy most about Zarza La Mayor?
Visitors to Zarza La Mayor particularly appreciate its rich blend of historical landmarks and captivating natural features. The tranquility of places like Termas de Monfortinho, the historical significance of sites like Peñafiel Castle, and the unique geological formations such as Peña Buraca are frequently highlighted. The opportunity for outdoor activities within the Tajo Internacional Biosphere Reserve is also a major draw.
Are there any medieval structures besides the main castle?
Beyond Peñafiel Castle, Zarza La Mayor boasts other medieval structures. The Fuente Conceja is a significant medieval architectural fountain recognized as an Asset of Cultural Interest. Additionally, the area around Peña Buraca features anthropomorphic tombs from medieval times.
Where can I find scenic views of the landscape?
For scenic views, the area around Peñafiel Castle of Zarza la Mayor offers stunning panoramas, as it's strategically located on a rocky outcrop above the Erjas River. The Tajo Internacional Biosphere Reserve, particularly areas like Canchos de Ramiro, also provides exceptional natural vistas.
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