Campanario: Archaeology, Architecture and Nature by the Water

Campanario Between History and Landscape

Campanario combines archaeological history, distinctive architecture, and themes of nature and water. The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción is in the town center; the archaeological complex of La Mata is within the municipality, and the Ermita de Nuestra Señora de Piedraescrita is about ten kilometers from Campanario. This gives you a range of options for planning your trip: local architecture, rural history, a museum visit arranged by phone, or waterside landscapes.

Archaeological Heritage and Buildings

The archaeological complex of La Mata, in the municipality of Campanario (Badajoz), is protected as an Asset of Cultural Interest in the category of Archaeological Zone. The building served as a residence for rural elites during the post-Orientalizing period. Its protected status and historical use offer two different perspectives: its classification as an archaeological zone reflects its cultural heritage value, while its former residential function describes the building’s social role in its time.

The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción stands in the center of Campanario. Its front façade features a bell gable that replaced an earlier tower. The Casa del Diablo stands out in the square for its striking stone façade. The façade of the Convento de las Clarisas bears the coat of arms of the Franciscan Order, with its crossed arms. The buildings also differ in the details that catch the eye: the bell gable, stonework, and religious emblem.

The Chapel and Romería de Piedraescrita

The Ermita de Nuestra Señora de Piedraescrita is located at a Mesta drovers’ rest area about ten kilometers from Campanario. In 1993, the Government of Extremadura declared it an Asset of Cultural Interest. Its architectural features include a surrounding portico and a Baroque camarín crowned by a dome. The revered Virgen de Piedraescrita is a separate work of art: the statue of the Virgin Mary dates back to the 13th century.

The Romería de Piedraescrita is held in honor of this statue of the Virgin Mary on Easter Monday and is recognized as a Festival of Tourist Interest in Extremadura. If you plan your trip around the festival, check the specific dates.

Museum of Rural Society

The Museo Arte-Naturaleza y Etnográfico de Campanario presents a permanent educational exhibition about rural society in the recent past. On display are tools used in local trades, as well as handicrafts made from esparto grass and juncia rush. The exhibition therefore brings together aspects of everyday working life and craft. Visits are arranged by phone; confirm your appointment before visiting.

Reservoirs, Nature and Water Sports

The Embalse del Paredón is a microhabitat for waterbirds, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. The Presa del Paredón dams the waters of the Arroyo del Molar, a tributary of the Zújar, and is built of quartzite and slate masonry. It is also listed in Extremadura’s Inventory of Historical and Cultural Heritage. Here, information about the dam’s construction goes hand in hand with its importance as a habitat.

The Orellana Reservoir is popular with birdwatchers and is home to, among others, griffon vultures, golden eagles, black storks, otters, badgers, and natterjack toads. It forms part of a wetland of international importance; its shores touch, among other areas, the municipality of Campanario. Playa de Campanario is a freshwater beach on the reservoir’s left bank. Water sports can be enjoyed there; the activities available depend on the season and local conditions. Bathing facilities and water conditions may change seasonally.

Getting Around on Foot and by Road

The GR-115 TranSerena is divided into four stages. One stage runs from Castuera to Campanario; the Campanario–La Haba stage follows the course of the Arroyo del Molar. Check the route’s condition and trail conditions before setting out.

To reach Campanario, take the A-5 to exit 316, continue on the EX-A2 to exit 23, and then follow the EX-104 toward Campanario. Check the route for roadworks or changes before you travel.

Discover more destinations: Villafranca De Los Barros, Villalba De Los Barros, Valverde De Leganés, Fuente De Cantos, Llerena, Siruela, Casas de Don Pedro, Talarrubias.

For the broader travel overview: Badajoz.