Strolling Through Trujillo's Old Town: Pizarro, Plaza Mayor, and Quiet Monasteries

Here we stand before the Casa de Pizarro, a historic building dating back to the 15th century, deeply connected to the history of Trujillo and the conquest of the Americas. Have you ever wondered what it was like to live in a house that's stood the test of centuries? This might very well be the birthplace of Francisco Pizarro—the man who later conquered the vast Inca Empire in South America. Whether that's true or not remains a mystery, but it certainly adds to the intrigue of the place.

The building itself is a fantastic example of the Plateresque style, which was very popular in Spain back then. If you look closely, you'll notice the delicate decorations on the facades that resemble intricate silverwork—hence the name 'Plateresque.' Inside, you'll be transported back in time: on the ground floor, you can picture what a typical Spanish noble's home looked like in the 15th century. It's like getting a glimpse into the life of the Spanish aristocrats who once lived here.

Upstairs, the story becomes even more captivating. You'll find an exhibit focused on the conquest of the Americas—from Pizarro's expeditions to life in Tahuantinsuyo, the Inca Empire. Have you ever wondered what it was like to arrive in a completely foreign world and discover a new culture? The exhibit doesn't just cover the major events, but also everyday life and the challenges involved.

A special feature is the courtyard, planted with flora native to the Americas. This isn't just decorative; it symbolizes the connection between Spain and the New World, brought about by Pizarro and his contemporaries. A little green oasis that brings history to life.

If you're interested, you can visit the Casa de Pizarro daily—from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and then again from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. For just €1.50, you get a fascinating glimpse into a period that changed Trujillo and the world. Who would have thought that so much history lies within these walls?

Here we stand before the Church of Santa María la Mayor, a building that has shaped the skyline of Trujillo since the 13th century. Did you know this church was built on the remains of a Moorish mosque? This highlights the layers of history converging in this spot—from the Moorish era to the Christian Reconquista.

The church features three naves with a polygonal apse covered by ribbed vaults adorned with special ribs called 'tiercerons.' Sounds complex? Just imagine an intricately designed ceiling where these unique ribs both support the vault and create a striking pattern.

A real highlight inside is the Gothic high altar by Fernando Gallego, dating back to 1480. It's considered one of the most beautiful in the entire Extremadura region. If you look closely, you’ll notice fine details and masterful craftsmanship created over 500 years ago.

Wondering why the bell tower is called "Torre Julia"? It was rebuilt in the 18th century after the city was struck by earthquakes. The tower is a prominent example of late Romanesque architecture and immediately catches your eye when you look around.

Over the centuries, the church has been restored and expanded multiple times, which you can tell from the mix of Romanesque and Gothic elements. It’s not just a place of worship but also a testament to Trujillo’s rich and complex history.

Here’s a little challenge: Can you imagine that some of the most important noble families of the city are buried in this church? Names like Pizarro, Orellana, and Altamirano are closely tied to Trujillo’s story—and you can find their traces right here.

Finally, don’t miss a look at Santa María Square, where the church stands. Here, you can feel history come alive and see how architecture, culture, and daily life are deeply intertwined. So, take a moment to soak in the details—there’s more here than meets the eye.

Here we stand before Santiago Church, a building that has shaped the city of Trujillo since the late 12th century. Have you ever wondered what it's like to stand on the remains of a Moorish fortress? That's what makes this church so unique—it brings together different eras and cultures in a single structure.

Take a look at the semicircular apse—that dates back to the original Romanesque period. That means it's almost 900 years old! Later, in the 15th and 17th centuries, the church was remodeled and expanded, which you can spot in its Gothic features. This blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture tells the story of the region’s development and the changing influences that came together here.

Inside, you'll find impressive artworks like the Romanesque depiction of Our Lady of the Crown. This image isn't just a religious symbol; it's a piece of history showing the deep connection the local people have with their faith. Then there's the 14th-century Cristo de las Aguas statue—a figure that's been part of the city's spiritual tradition for centuries.

Did you know that after the Reconquista, Santiago Church was an important meeting place for the city council? This shows how closely intertwined religion and politics were at the time. So, the church wasn't just a place of worship but also a hub of community life.

If you look around now, you can see Trujillo Castle nearby. The church’s close position to the castle was strategically smart—it provided protection and stood as a visible symbol of power and faith.

So, what makes this church special to you? Maybe it’s the combination of history, architecture, and art all coming together in one spot. Or the idea that you're standing in a place that has witnessed so many generations and still feels alive. Whatever it is, Santiago Church is definitely a place that invites you to reflect and explore.

Here we stand before the Church of San Martín, a place that's more than just a religious site – it tells the story of Trujillo itself. Did you know that the earliest records of this church go back to 1353? Back then, the city council met here to set the town's boundaries. That alone shows just how closely the church and city life were intertwined.

The building you see began construction in the 15th century and wasn’t completed until 1564, after some significant changes. What's fascinating is that the architecture blends Gothic and Renaissance styles. Take a look at the large, open nave made from granite blocks with its star-shaped ribbed vaults – a classic Gothic feature. At the same time, the façade and towers display clear Renaissance elements, like the plain doorway and the square bell tower on one side, balanced by a delicate, polygonal spire with a clock on the other.

You might wonder why the chapels between the flying buttresses jut out so noticeably. That's because they’re prominently visible from the upper levels, shaping the church's exterior appearance. This mix of practicality and design makes the church a true example of the transition between two major architectural styles.

Inside, you’ll find not only a Baroque altar but also an 18th-century organ crafted by Antonio de Larrea y Galarza. There are also Renaissance tombs belonging to prominent families from Trujillo – like a history book carved in stone.

Here’s something to think about: why do you think this church also served as a meeting place for the city council? Exactly, because it was more than a house of worship – it was a hub for community life and power in Trujillo.

If you look around now, you'll see how the sturdy stone façade rests on stepped foundations and how its towers define the town's skyline. This church is not just a building but a living testament to the history and culture of this region. A place that shows how architecture and community can grow together.

Here we are, standing before the equestrian statue of Francisco Pizarro, right in the middle of Trujillo's main square. Have you ever wondered what it's like when a statue holds so much history within it? This monument was unveiled in 1926 and shows Pizarro on horseback—a powerful image that immediately conveys his role as a conqueror and adventurer.

Did you know that Pizarro was born here in Trujillo? In this city in the province of Cáceres, his story began before he set out to conquer the Inca Empire in Peru. So, the statue not only honors a person but also an entire era closely tied to Trujillo.

The American sculptor Charles Cary Rumsey created this piece. His sculpture captures Pizarro's strength and determination, and it stands right next to the Palacio de los Duques de San Carlos, an impressive 16th-century building. Here, art, history, and architecture come together in a fascinating way.

Imagine how many people have stood here, admiring this monument and sharing stories about it. What do you think this statue means to the city today? It's more than just a monument—it’s a symbol of Trujillo's cultural heritage and a popular gathering spot for visitors from around the world.

If you look closely, you can see the fine details preserved through several restorations. This shows how important it is to protect pieces of our past. So, take a moment, look around, and feel the connection between the history that comes alive here and the vibrant city of Trujillo as it is today.

Here we are at Plaza Mayor in Trujillo, a square steeped in history and shaped by the Renaissance. Ever wondered what makes this place so special? It’s simple: it was the city's heart, a gathering spot for trade, politics, and social life — and that’s been true for centuries.

Right in the center, the first thing you'll notice is the statue of Francisco Pizarro on horseback. Do you know him? He was one of the most famous conquistadors who conquered Peru in the 16th century. This monument honors his connection to Trujillo, his hometown. It's almost as if he's watching over the square, keeping the stories of the past alive.

Surrounding Plaza Mayor, you'll find magnificent palaces and houses built by the conquistadors themselves. For example, the Palace of the Conquest shows how wealthy and influential these families once were. And the Church of San Martín here tells the story of the city's deep-rooted religious traditions.

Did you know that Trujillo was conquered by King Ferdinand III of Castile back in 1232? This makes the city an important site during the Reconquista, the Christian reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula. By the way, the name Trujillo comes from the Roman settlement Turgalium, which itself has even older roots — including Celtic origins.

Imagine how lively this place once was: merchants, travelers, and locals meeting here to trade goods and news, celebrate festivals, and enjoy the hustle and bustle. Today, Plaza Mayor isn't just a historic site; it's a vibrant gathering place with bars, restaurants, and small shops inviting you to linger.

Before we move on, take another look around and think: how many stories could these walls tell if they could talk? Plaza Mayor is more than just a square — it's a living piece of history that draws you right into Trujillo's fascinating past.

So here we are, standing in front of the Trujillo City Museum, right in the heart of this historic town. Have you ever wondered why Trujillo is often called the birthplace of the Conquistadors? It was right around here, back in the 16th century, that many explorers set off on their journeys to the New World — a period that shaped the history of both Spain and the Americas.

The museum itself is a place where you can dive deep into the region's history and culture. It doesn't just showcase ancient artifacts but also shares the stories of the people who lived here and helped shape the city. Imagine what life was like when these walls witnessed medieval times and the early days of Spanish expansion.

Just next to the museum is the Plaza Mayor, the main square surrounded by impressive palaces and historic buildings. Standing there, you can almost feel the heartbeat of history. And if you're curious about how the city was defended back then, take a look at the Castillo de Trujillo, a castle built on the remains of a Moorish fortress dating back to the 13th century.

Did you know that Trujillo was originally founded in the 10th century by the Moors? This long history makes the city a fascinating place where different cultures and eras come together. The medieval architecture you see all around is a living testament to that time.

Here's a tip: Don't miss the Church of Santa María la Mayor nearby. It's an impressive example of the region's religious architecture and perfectly completes the historical picture.

So, what makes the Trujillo City Museum so special? It's not just a place filled with history but also a spot where you can experience the past up close and understand how this city became what it is today. Ready to dive even deeper and uncover the stories behind these walls?

Here we stand before the House of the Chain, one of the most striking buildings in Trujillo's Main Square. The name alone sparks curiosity: "House of the Chain" — but what chain are we actually talking about? Above the entrance hangs a real chain, which isn’t just for decoration; it carries a very special meaning. It symbolizes the right of asylum granted to this house by King Philip II in 1583. Imagine, back then this was a powerful symbol — anyone seeking refuge here was under protection.

The building itself dates back to the 16th century and was built in the Renaissance style. It was the home of the Chaves-Orellana family, an influential clan who not only lived here but also managed their lands from this residence. The facade you see today was restored during the 19th and 20th centuries. Unfortunately, the original loggia on the top floor, which used to be open to the square, was lost. Still, the house continues to exude the charm of days gone by.

Next to the palace, you'll likely notice the adjacent tower—the so-called Alfiler Tower. Originally a defensive tower, part of the city walls, it was restored in 2004. Today, it serves as a hub to explore the history of Trujillo. It’s an intriguing spot that reveals just how closely the city’s story and its architecture are intertwined.

Today, the House of the Chain isn’t a museum but a vibrant place: it houses a restaurant and a hostel that offer traditional Extremaduran cuisine and cozy accommodations. This way, history blends seamlessly with modern life — a unique experience if you decide to stop by.

Ever wondered what it would be like to live in a house steeped in so much history? The House of the Chain tells a story of power, protection, and change — inviting you to become part of its narrative as you stroll through the Main Square and soak up the atmosphere.

Take a look at this stunning Renaissance palace, the Orellana-Pizarro Palace. Built in the 16th century, it’s closely tied to one of the most fascinating families in Spanish history: the Orellana-Pizarros. Ever wondered what it was like to live in a time when explorers and conquerors reshaped the world? Juan de Orellana-Pizarro, who commissioned this palace, was not only an important figure in Trujillo but also the first mayor of Cusco in Peru — that very place where the Inca thrived. He was a relative of Francisco Pizarro, the famous conqueror of Peru, making this site a genuine link between Spain and the New World.

The palace stands on the foundations of a medieval fortress owned by the Vargas family, which you can still spot from the two rectangular towers on the facade. These towers date back to the 14th and 15th centuries and give the building a unique character. A highlight is the Renaissance balcony on one of the towers — a detail that shows how architecture and family history blend here. If you look closely at the main entrance, you’ll notice the Orellana family crest — a symbol of power and tradition.

Inside, you’ll find a square courtyard surrounded by an elegant balustrade. Here, the coats of arms of the Orellana and Pizarro families proudly display their history and influence. Particularly captivating is the granite spiral staircase leading to the upper floors — an architectural masterpiece that still amazes visitors today. Beneath the courtyard is a cistern that collects rainwater — a clever solution from a time when securing water was a real challenge.

Did you know that the famous writer Miguel de Cervantes stayed here in 1582? On his journey from Portugal to Madrid, he made a stop at this palace — a small yet significant moment showing how culturally important this place was.

Today, the Orellana-Pizarro Palace isn’t just a historical building; it’s a living space, serving as the motherhouse for a religious congregation and housing a school. In 1989, the palace was declared a site of national cultural interest — a recognition of its importance to Spain’s history and heritage.

So, standing here, you’re in the middle of a story about power, exploration, and culture — all within a building that is itself a piece of history. What stories do you think the walls of this palace could still tell?