Caceres

About

Since Pre-Roman times, Cáceres has been an important trading town and political center. Even today remnants of its Roman, Arab, Jewish and Christian inhabitantscan be found within the walled city. Access is granted through the arch of La Estrella, which was built in the 18th century to replace the earlier gate. In the mediaeval centre, the numerous palaces and noble mansions are easily identified by their family crests. Several of these ring the Plaza de Santa María square, including a 12th-century Moorish tower, which houses the Tourist Department. Perhaps the most striking is the 15th century Palace of Los Golfines de Abajo, with a striking 6th-century Renaissance façade, and Gothic, Mudejar, and Plateresque embellishments. The 15th century cathedral of Santa María has an image of 'the Black Christ' - according to legend, any who dared to look at or touch the figure would die.