Easy hikes and walks around Llanos de Olivenza

For the Portuguese, Olivenza is Portuguese land, since it was taken by the Spanish during the Napoleonic Wars and should have been returned, but this never happened. Currently, Portugal offers Portuguese nationality to all Olivenza residents who request it and prove they had Portuguese ancestors. Mixed marriages have always existed, and neither the Portuguese nor the Spanish are interested in waging war. This is a lesson for humanity: a disputed territory that unites two brotherly peoples.

What to see in Olivenza Castle and Keep A 13th-century Templar fortress, later expanded by the Portuguese. The Keep is 36-40 meters tall and offers spectacular views of the historic center. Bastioned Walls and Historic Gates The Alconchel Gate and the Calvary Gate are the most emblematic. Walk along the bastions and discover the star-shaped defensive structure. Manueline Churches Santa María del Castillo: altarpiece of the Tree of Jesse and Portuguese tiles. Santa María Magdalena: spectacular Manueline portal and twisted columns inside. Museums González Santana Ethnographic Museum of Extremadura: local history and traditions. Papercraft Museum: original and intriguing, ideal for a quick visit. Historic Center Cobblestone streets, squares such as Plaza de España and Plaza de la Constitución, and buildings adorned with Portuguese tiles.

Olivenza is a historical and cultural gem in the province of Badajoz, with a unique blend of Spanish and Portuguese influences. Olivenza was Portuguese for over 500 years (1297-1801) and still preserves bilingual inscriptions and Portuguese architecture. Portugal continues to symbolically claim sovereignty, even though the town is fully integrated into Spain.

With the construction of the Alqueva Dam, and because Monsaraz is not only a monumental town, but also a high point from which to enjoy spectacular views of the waters of the great lake, the number of tourists in this area has increased exponentially in recent years.

https://pt.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castelo_de_Monsaraz

In a region dotted with megalithic monuments, it is believed that the earliest human occupation of this site dates back to a prehistoric hillfort, successively occupied by Romans, Visigoths, and Muslims, who derived their subsistence from activities related to the agro-pastoral economy. The place name is linked to the latter domain, since, in Portuguese, the word xarez (or xerez) derives from the Arabic saris (or sharish), designating the rockrose (xaras) vegetation then abundant along the banks of the Guadiana River. The place name Monsaraz thus evolved from Monte Xarez (or Xaraz).

At Mapcarta, the viewpoint is called Miradouro do Alqueva. From here, you have panoramic views of Albufeira de Alqueva and the town of Monsaraz.

Monsaraz is one of the best-preserved historic towns in the Alentejo and an old Templar domain. The town still boasts a continuous, enclosed city wall and many preserved historic buildings. This beautiful medieval town is an absolute highlight on any tour of Portugal. The village's narrow streets and whitewashed houses will transport you on a journey back in time. The most important sights are the old castle, the Matriz Church, and the former Palace of Justice. As long as you arrive before the hordes of tourists arrive by bus, a stroll through the old streets is truly enjoyable.