Extremadura
Extremadura is an autonomous community of western Spain. It includes the provinces of Cáceres and Badajoz. Extremadura borders Portugal to the west, and it is an important area for wildlife, particularly with the major reserve at Monfragüe, which has recently been recognised as National Park, or the project of International Tagus River Natural Park (Parque Natural Rio Tajo internacional).
Extremadura is a very dry, brown coloured land which is at the same time, a land full of water. Thanks to its many reservoirs it provides a great deal of electricity and water for irrigation. It is also a rich and fertile land that has for centuries supplied much of Europe with fresh produce. The region covers an area of 41,602 km square and consists of two provinces, Caceres and Badajoz. The region borders Portugal to the west, Andalucia to the south and Castilla la Mancha to the east. The total population, which has suffered over recent years due to emigration, is estimated to be just over one million. The regions capital is Merida which has just over 51,000 inhabitants.
Property in Extremadura
A place of outstanding beauty, surrounded by nature, this is Real Spain away from the costas. It is only now being discovered and been rated the next best place to invest, with an average 3 bedroom villa and pool for about the same price as an apartment in the coastal regions. If it´s Real Spain and value for money you want then take a look at our amazing value for money prices.The region is crossed from east to west by two important rivers, the Tagus and the Guadiana. The Tagus feeds the huge Alcantara reservoir which is the largest in western Europe. Its size is such that it could supply every inhabitant in the enitire world with 500 litres of water.
Extremaduras history is known to date back to pre Roman times when cave dwellers lived in the area. Over time every civilisation has left its mark in the region and this is best seen by the Roman history to be found in Merida.
The monumental city of Caceres has been appointed a Heritage of mankind city and contains a wealth of historical monuments. However this is not a city held back in time. Caceres has adapted itself to the new influx of tourists exploring the narrow streets and beautiful squares.
Trujillo which is located just 45km east of Cáceres is a beautiful walled town dated from the 13th century and is one of the best places to visit in the region. Guadalupe is a village of great importance and is dominated by the Gothic monastery. A guided visit round the monastery lasts about an hour. The former hospital that stands opposite the monastery now houses the parador.
Plasencia is the second most important city within the Caceres province. It has around 37,000 inhabitants and stands along the River Jerte. The city has two cathedrals, one of which dates from the 13th century. There are also several palaces and a hunting museum worthy of a visit. As you make your way through the region you pass through such places as the Garden of la Vera, the Valley of the River Jerte and the Sierra de Gata. You will almost stumble across tiny hamlets and villages, each with its own unique character.
By far though, the jewel of extremadura is Merida, its capital. It has been a capital since Roman times when it was the capital of Lusitania. There are monuments to see everywhere but there are three that you must see, the Roman Theatre, Amphitheatre and museum.
