Information about Alcuéscar
Alcuéscar is situated between the mountain ranges of El Centinela and La Lombriz. The town was founded in the year 830 by the Muslims and nowadays it brings together the richness of several cultures in the same place. It is home to stunning natural landscapes and great historical treasures, making it a town of great interest to any traveller. This is a real treat for visitors to enter this land steeped in history and culture.
What to see and do in Alcuéscar
The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption
This church is located in one of the highest points of Alcuéscar. It is estimated that its construction began during the fifteenth century and lasted until the seventeenth century, with a rectangular floor plan and a nave divided into five sections. These are covered by vaults with lunettes over pointed arches. It also has a main chapel with a ribbed vault, the chapel of the tabernacle and the baptismal chapel. Its oldest doorway has a semicircular arch tending to the horseshoe, framed by an alfiz with balls. An interesting insight into the historical heritage that can be found in this beautiful town.
The route of the Cork Oaks
This route is perfect to contemplate the beautiful natural heritage of Alcuéscar and is very accessible, with a low difficulty and a length of 15 km. It runs through beautiful landscapes of the foothills of the Sierra del Centinela surrounded by immense cork oak forests. On the route you can see the Hispano-Visigoth Basilica of Santa María del Trampal, a surprising historical construction. The ideal plan for those looking for healthy outdoor environments.
The Basilica of Santa Lucia del Trampal
This is another temple of great historical and architectural interest that the surroundings of Alcuéscar offer to the visitor. Its origin is somewhat unclear and it is said to have been built between the 7th and 9th centuries. It presents Visigothic characteristics in its structure and later Mozarabic influences, starring three rectangular chapels open to a transept. Its importance is such that in 1983 it was declared an Asset of Cultural Interest in the category of Monument, and it is the only Visigothic trace that remains standing in the southern half of the peninsula. Another interesting place to visit during your stay in Alcuéscar.
Arroyomolinos de Montánchez
This location is very close to Alcuéscar so it is very interesting to move to it during your stay in this village. In the transition zone between the Sierra de Montánchez and the Vegas del Guadiana, we can notice its relief that has been outlined in a very curious way and seems to be formed by two different geomorphological units. It is an ideal area for lovers of hiking, as it offers the opportunity to make different routes with all levels of difficulty and spend an excellent day surrounded by nature.
The Hermitage of Our Lady of Fatima
It is also known as the hermitage of Calvario and it is the first hermitage dedicated to Fatima that the whole country has found. It is located on a hill overlooking the entire municipality. For more interest, it has a great viewpoint with which to enjoy the natural and rural environment.
Gastronomy
It is impossible to pass by Alcuéscar without mentioning its interesting gastronomic value. In this small town there are some traditional recipes that are perfect to regain strength and to let yourself be carried away by that small pleasure of life that is good food. They are popular in Alcuéscar the pickled beans, the migas, the calderetas (stews) and the pickled tench. All the Iberian sausages are also of great quality in the area, so you will always be right tasting one of them.