The best running trails around Ciudad Rodrigo

The Alcázar Gate in Ciudad Rodrigo is one of the historic entrances to the city walls and has great heritage and scenic value. It was opened in 1507 by Antonio del Águila, warden of the Alcázar, when he built the defensive barrier in that area. It is located next to the Castle of Henry II of Trastámara, in the section of the wall facing the Águeda River, known as the Battery, due to the cannons that were once installed there.

It was built in the 16th century by the Chaves family, one of the city's most influential families, who conceived it as a family pantheon. The project was directed by Pedro de Ibarra and Juan de la Puente, with the collaboration of Juan de Balbás and Rodrigo de Ruesga. Since 2021, the church has been owned by the Diocese of Ciudad Rodrigo and has undergone recent restorations, including the vault, thanks to grants from the Regional Government of Castile and León.

The Plaza Mayor of Ciudad Rodrigo is the historical and social heart of the city, with a rich history that reflects its importance as an urban center: Since the Middle Ages, the Plaza Mayor has been the hub of public life: markets, proclamations, and council meetings were held there in the cloister of the former Church of San Juan. In the 16th century, public butcher shops were built, and it became a consolidated space for commercial and festive activities. Until then, the square was home to the Three Roman Columns, a vestige of the ancient Miróbriga, which had been a symbol of the city since the 13th century. In 1580, the square was expanded, incorporating the space that once housed the old prison and the Audiencia (Courthouse). It even had corridors for watching bullfights, a tradition that continues during carnivals.

Ciudad Rodrigo's Town Hall is located in the Plaza Mayor and is one of the city's most emblematic buildings. Its history is linked to the urban and political development of Ciudad Rodrigo since the Middle Ages. Medieval Origins: Ciudad Rodrigo was founded in Roman times, but its consolidation as a fortified urban center occurred in the Middle Ages. Municipal government was organized around the council, which initially met in council houses until the current building was built.

The Puerta del Alcázar is one of the ancient access gates to the walled enclosure of Ciudad Rodrigo. This gate, along with others such as the Puerta del Sol and the Puerta de Santiago, was part of the city's defensive system.

The Cathedral of Santa María is an imposing testimony of faith and art. It began to be built in the 12th century and stood as a grandiose temple in the heart of the city. Its history is intertwined with the presence and return of Christianity after Muslim domination. A visit to the cathedral includes exploring its museum and cloister, allowing you to immerse yourself in its rich history and architectural beauty.

Historical town from the Middle Ages with a city wall is well worth seeing. We spent one night right in the central square of the city. The square offers several opportunities to eat and sit outside. 👍

Ciudad Rodirgo is one of the most historically important cities in this area of the Iberian Peninsula. Its alleys, urbanism, walls and churches mean that you cannot miss this beautiful city!