Highlight • Historical Site
Becerra Manor House
Hiking
3.8
(10)
Running
5.0
(3)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
The Casa Palacio de los Becerra is a distinguished historical site located in the heart of Cáceres, Extremadura, Spain. This Gothic-style palace, situated in the picturesque Plaza de San Jorge within the city's monumental enclosure, stands at an elevation of approximately 459 meters. It is a prime example of a "casa fuerte" or fortified house, showcasing the civil architecture characteristic of Cáceres from the late Middle Ages. Today, it serves as the headquarters for the Mercedes Calles and Carlos Ballestero Foundation, a cultural hub dedicated to preserving and promoting the city's rich heritage.
Visitors are consistently captivated by the palace's imposing facade, which beautifully concentrates the architectural elements typical of Cáceres mansions from the late 15th and early 16th centuries. The striking semicircular arch doorway, adorned with long voussoirs, and the prominent coats of arms of the Becerra, Paredes, Ribera, and Orellana families draw particular admiration. Many note that the building's exterior, despite its intricate details, belies the nearly 1,000 square meters of space within, making its internal scale a pleasant surprise.
When planning a visit to this historical site, it's helpful to know that the monumental city of Cáceres involves walking on cobblestone streets, so comfortable footwear is advisable. While the palace itself is generally accessible, those interested in exploring the surrounding walking routes in Cáceres historic center should be prepared for some uneven terrain. Parking near Casa Palacio de los Becerra can be challenging within the pedestrianized historic center, so considering public transport to the city's periphery or using designated parking garages outside the walls is recommended.
The Casa Palacio de los Becerra is a rewarding destination at any time of year, though spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring the city. Beyond its architectural beauty, the palace provides a unique cultural experience. The ground floor hosts a permanent exhibition of Doña Mercedes Calles' collections, featuring furniture, paintings, and antiques. The upper floors are frequently used for temporary exhibitions, sometimes showcasing renowned artists, as well as meetings and conferences, making it a vibrant center for family activities in Cáceres.
While the Casa Palacio de los Becerra is a destination in itself, visitors can also enjoy the charming courtyard. For a small fee, ascending the two towers offers panoramic viewpoints around Casa Palacio de los Becerra and the surrounding monumental city. This provides a fantastic opportunity to appreciate the scale and beauty of Cáceres from above, offering a different perspective on the historic rooftops and landmarks.
Exploring the Casa Palacio de los Becerra offers a genuine glimpse into Cáceres' medieval past and its ongoing cultural life. The blend of historical architecture with contemporary art and cultural events creates a memorable experience. It's a place where the grandeur of a fortified house meets the modern mission of a foundation dedicated to its city.
To fully appreciate the area, consider the various walking routes around Casa Palacio de los Becerra and the wider Cáceres historic center. Whether you're interested in a leisurely stroll through the ancient streets or a more extensive exploration of the city's landmarks, komoot offers numerous routes to help you discover the best of Cáceres. You can find options for different difficulty levels, ensuring everyone can enjoy the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
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October 9, 2023
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Becerra Manor House
38
runners
5.64km
00:36
110m
110m
Jogging the 3.5-mile Vía de la Plata: Cáceres Historic Center Loop offers a moderate route through UNESCO-listed cobbled streets.
4.55km
00:31
90m
90m
An easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) jogging route through Cáceres' historic center, offering panoramic views from Mirador del Cerro del Amaro.
33
runners
12.8km
01:21
150m
150m
Hard run. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 460 m
Weather
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Wednesday 10 June
35°C
17°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Casa Palacio de los Becerra wheelchair accessible?
While the palace itself has undergone significant restoration, the historic nature of the building and its location within the monumental city of Cáceres mean that full wheelchair accessibility might be limited in certain areas. The ground floor, which houses the permanent exhibition, is generally more accessible. However, ascending the towers for panoramic views would likely involve stairs. It's advisable to contact the Mercedes Calles and Carlos Ballestero Foundation directly for the most current and detailed accessibility information.
What are the best parking options when visiting Casa Palacio de los Becerra?
Parking directly within the pedestrianized historic center of Cáceres, where Casa Palacio de los Becerra is located, is very challenging and often restricted. It is highly recommended to use designated parking garages located just outside the city walls. From there, you can enjoy a short walk into the monumental area. Consider options like the Parking Obispo Galarza or Parking Plaza Mayor, which are within reasonable walking distance.
How can I reach Casa Palacio de los Becerra using public transport?
Cáceres has a local bus network that serves the city. While buses do not enter the historic center, several lines have stops on the periphery, such as near Plaza Mayor or Avenida de España. From these stops, Casa Palacio de los Becerra is a short walk into the monumental city. Check local bus routes and schedules for the most convenient option to reach the edge of the historic center.
What are the typical opening hours for Casa Palacio de los Becerra and the Mercedes Calles Foundation?
As the headquarters of the Mercedes Calles and Carlos Ballestero Foundation, the palace's opening hours can vary, especially depending on exhibitions and events. Generally, the ground floor exhibition space is open to the public during standard daytime hours. It's always best to check the official website of the Mercedes Calles and Carlos Ballestero Foundation or contact them directly for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
Are guided tours available at Casa Palacio de los Becerra?
While the palace primarily functions as an exhibition space, offering self-guided exploration of its collections and architecture, special guided tours may be available for groups or during specific events. For information on potential guided tour options, especially for a deeper dive into its history or current exhibitions, it is recommended to inquire directly with the Mercedes Calles and Carlos Ballestero Foundation.
What specific activities are available for families at Casa Palacio de los Becerra?
Families can enjoy exploring the historical architecture of the palace and the permanent exhibition of furniture, paintings, and antiques on the ground floor. The foundation also frequently hosts temporary exhibitions, which can sometimes be engaging for various age groups. A highlight for many families is ascending the two towers (for a small fee) to enjoy panoramic views of Cáceres, offering a unique perspective of the city's rooftops and landmarks.
Is Casa Palacio de los Becerra a dog-friendly attraction?
Due to its status as a historical building and cultural foundation, Casa Palacio de los Becerra typically does not permit dogs inside, with the exception of service animals. The monumental city of Cáceres itself has varying rules regarding pets in public spaces and establishments. It's best to confirm with the foundation directly if you plan to visit with a service animal.
What should I wear when visiting Casa Palacio de los Becerra and the historic center of Cáceres?
Comfortable footwear is essential when visiting Casa Palacio de los Becerra and the surrounding historic center of Cáceres. The streets are predominantly cobblestone and can be uneven, making sturdy shoes a must. Dress comfortably and consider layers, as temperatures can vary throughout the day. If you plan to ascend the towers, ensure your footwear is secure for stairs.
Are there cafes, pubs, or restaurants near Casa Palacio de los Becerra?
Yes, Casa Palacio de los Becerra is situated in the vibrant Plaza de San Jorge, which is part of the historic center of Cáceres. This area is bustling with numerous cafes, traditional taverns, and restaurants offering a wide range of local Extremaduran cuisine and international options. You'll find plenty of choices for a meal or a refreshing drink just a few steps from the palace.
What are some other historical sites or landmarks near Casa Palacio de los Becerra that are worth visiting?
Casa Palacio de los Becerra is nestled within the UNESCO World Heritage site of Cáceres' monumental city, meaning you are surrounded by historical treasures. Nearby landmarks include the Plaza de San Jorge itself with its church, the Concatedral de Santa María, the Palacio de los Golfines de Abajo, the Arco de la Estrella, and the ancient city walls. Exploring the narrow, winding streets will reveal countless other palaces, churches, and hidden courtyards, each with its own story.
How crowded does Casa Palacio de los Becerra get on weekends or during peak season?
As a significant historical and cultural site within a popular tourist destination, Casa Palacio de los Becerra can experience higher visitor numbers on weekends, public holidays, and during peak tourist seasons (typically spring and autumn). While the palace's interior is spacious, the ground floor exhibition and tower access might see more queues. To avoid the largest crowds, consider visiting earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon, or during weekdays if possible.