Plasencia - 'Strong words, quietly spoken'
- Mark Eveleigh
- Mar 13
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 25
Plasencia, Extremadura, is one of those Spanish towns that doesn’t try too hard to impress - and yet it still invariably manages to do so. Guarding the western bank of the Río Jerte, it’s a place of old stone walls, quiet plazas and shady alleys. A deep sense of history hums through Plasencia's narrow streets. Unlike the tourist-thronged cities of Andalusia and the Costas, Plasencia feels lived-in, authentic - a town where life moves at its own pace, shaped by the rhythms of the changing seasons.
Its 12th century walls are a reminder of the town’s strategic importance during the Christian Reconquest. Plasencia's 14th century cathedral is a glorious, somewhat chaotic mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. The result? A kind of architectural conversation between past and present. A history lesson frozen in stone.
Beyond the history, Plasencia is a city that strikes visitors as unusually 'in tune with its natural setting'. The Jerte Valley explodes into colour every spring with cherry blossoms, drawing visitors who come to see the hillsides turn white and pink. And the food? Pure Extremaduran country soul - hearty stews, rich cheeses, and jamón ibérico that melts on your tongue.
Plasencia isn’t flashy. This is not Barcelona but that’s the city's charm. It’s history, nature, and tradition - wrapped in a quiet, enduring beauty. Book in for a night and you run the risk of staying a week!
Blend of history and 'modernity'
As you wander through the medieval streets of Plasencia, the city's historical significance resonates at every turn. Founded in the 12th century, it's experienced multiple cultural influences that have sculpted its architectural landscape. The two cathedrals are referred to as the 'old' and the 'new' but actually they are the 'old' and the 'older' since even the modern construction dates to the 16th century. Together they showcase a unique fusion of Gothic and Renaissance styles.
Gastronomy that speaks volumes
More than 80% of the region's agricultural production is said to be organic, making it a haven for food enthusiasts. Plasencia takes pride in its culinary scene, featuring traditional tapas, succulent Iberian ham, hearty stews and refreshing gazpacho. You'll find exquisite cheese made from organic sheep's milk, which pairs beautifully with local vino. For a true taste of Extremadura, sample the cordero de Extremadura, a slow-cooked lamb dish. Local restaurants often showcase dishes through seasonal menus, ensuring that you experience the freshest and finest ingredients.
Bustling markets and local culture
The vibrant markets of Plasencia add another layer to its charm. The Mercado de Abastos serves as a lively gathering spot where you can engage with locals and sample a variety of fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and that unforgettable Extremaduran camaraderie.
More than just a shopping venue, the various markets have been the lifeblood of Plasencia since the Middle Ages. The warm interactions with friendly vendors enhance your experience, and they'll often be quick to share valuable tips on local recipes.
Best time to go?
During spring, the cherry blossoms bloom, attracting visitors from across Spain, as the valley transforms into a carpet of pink and white flowers. Reputedly, over 1 million cherry trees blossom in the Jerte Valley, making it a breathtaking sight.
Best places to eat and drink in Plasencia:
Typical spend (per person):
€ = >€13
€€ = €13-€30
€€€ = €30<
La Taperia - €
Avenida Extremadura, 23
The only complaint you're likely to hear about Plasencia's most popular tapas bar is that it can get too crowded. What with free tapas served with all drinks and a seemingly endless selection of delicious raciones (bigger sampling plates) on the menu, it's not surprising that this spot - with tables indoor and outdoors - is one of the best places to mix with the locals. If you try just one thing make it the selection of croquetas (12 of them for just €10) - with unexpected flavours like blue cheese, bulls tail and chipirones en su tinta (squid in their ink).
8am-midnight. Closed Wednesdays.
Restaurante Succo - €€
Calle de Las Vidrieras, 7
Chic, trendy and on-point, Succo is deservedly a culinary highlight of the region. Right in the heart of the city (less than 50m from Plaza Mayor) it's ideally placed whether you want to make use of the stylish restaurant or the cozy cafe. Come here for tender suckling pig, delicate Wagyu carpaccio, authentic Valencian paella or the deliciously sticky ribs glazed with black beer.
1:30pm-3:45pm, 8:30pm-10:45pm. Closed Tuesday.
Aromë Restaurante - €€
Plaza Ansano, 1
Best known for its meat dishes - such as Paletilla de cordero lechal (suckling lamb), embutido de jabalí (wild boar sausage) or lomo de ciervo (venison loin) - Aromë also offers enough mouthwatering seafood specialities to bring an unexpected touch of variety to landlocked Extremadura. This attractive venue, just a block from Plasencia's iconic cathedral, boasts an attractively decorated interior and a lovely patio.
Thursday-Saturday 9am-4pm, 7pm-midnight.
Sunday & Wednesday 9am-4pm
Monday & Tuesday closed.