The best traffic-free bike rides around Fregenal De La Sierra

The Parador de Zafra is located in what was once the palace of the Dukes of Feria. The building clearly reflects its long and rich history, which includes the Extremaduran explorer Hernán Cortés, a distinguished guest of the palace. The Parador preserves beautiful coffered ceilings, chests, ironwork, handrails, and decorative elements from the former palace.

The Parish of Nuestra Señora de la Consolación in Hinojales, Huelva, is a beautiful example of Andalusian Gothic-Mudejar architecture from the end of the 15th century. This Catholic temple is considered a Site of Cultural Interest by the Department of Culture of the Regional Government of Andalusia. The building has three naves separated by Tuscan columns and a chancel with an original ribbed vault. Inside, it houses important fresco murals from the 15th and 16th centuries, depicting episodes from the life of Christ and the Virgin, as well as portraits of saints such as Saint Bartholomew, Saint Catherine and Saint Lucy.

This castle was entrusted to the Knights Templar in the 13th century. The castle has seven towers, the most notable of which is the Torre del Homenaje, which has a bell tower from the 18th century. Inside the fortress are the Plaza de Toros, built at the end of the 18th century, and the Plaza de Abastos, which dates from the beginning of the 20th century. In addition, the Church of Santa María and the Parish House are attached.

The Convent of Our Lady of Peace in Fregenal de la Sierra is a historic building from the 17th century, built by the merchant Alonso de Paz. This convent, belonging to the Augustinian Mothers, stands out for its architecture and its rich history. In the church of the convent you can see three altarpieces made thanks to the “pious mandate” of Juan Bravo Murillo. In addition, above the choir there is a 17th century canvas attributed to the artist Domingo de Urbín, which represents the appearance of the Virgin Mary to Saint Ildefonso of Toledo.

The Plaza de Toros de Fregenal de la Sierra is located in the municipality of the same name, in the province of Badajoz. This plaza has a special charm, as it is located in the courtyard of the Templar castle. Built in 1781, the plaza has a capacity for 4,800 spectators and is classified as third category. The history of the plaza is closely linked to the urban development of the town and the influence of the castle fortress.

A visit is not possible because it is a hotel. The patio/inner courtyard, which is worth seeing, can be visited. And if you want to spend more time here, you can take a break in the café.

Spring water tastes really great

It is a typical town in the mountains in the north of Huelva, very close to the border with Extremadura. It is worth taking a walk through its narrow streets and visiting the church of Nuestra Señora de Consolación.