Feria: Castle, May Crosses and Historic Streets

In Feria, steep, winding streets and whitewashed vernacular buildings shape the historic townscape. The houses adapt to the rugged terrain. Designated a historic-artistic ensemble, Feria combines this distinctive character with the castle beside the town, religious traditions and scenic landscapes. This gives you a choice of different focuses when planning your trip: architectural history, the Santa Cruz tradition or a walking excursion.

Feria Castle: History and Architecture

The castle stands on a rocky outcrop beside the town and has been an important defensive position since ancient times. During a visit, you can explore the castle tower’s four floors and reach the terrace, which offers views across Tierra de Barros. The main structure that survives today, along with the existing keep, dates from the mid-15th century; the castle was later remodelled several times. The construction of an early earthen alcazaba on the same site is attributed to the area’s Muslim population.

The keep is an example of Gothic military architecture: it has a square floor plan with rounded corners. The outer wall follows the irregular terrain and features cylindrical watchtowers. An interior cross-wall divides the complex into two parts. The tower also houses the Centro de Interpretación del Señorío de Feria. The castle thus brings together defensive architecture, different building phases and the interpretation of its history today.

The castle is listed as open daily from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Check the opening hours before travelling.

Santa Cruz: Crosses, Procession and Theatre

The Santa Cruz festival, also known as the May Crosses, takes place in Feria on May 3 and is recognised as a festival of tourist interest in Extremadura. The programme includes a flower-offering ceremony, a service afterwards and a procession through the narrow, steep streets. The Rincón de la Cruz was built in 1980; since then, a flower-offering ceremony has been held there every May 3. If you want to plan your trip around the festival, check the specific dates and programme in advance.

The tradition also includes women and children making crosses, which are displayed in the parish church on May 2 and 3. The main festival cross remains in San Bartolomé Church throughout the year. The church was built in the late 15th century and is classified as early Gothic. The crosses thus link an annual occasion with a building that visitors can appreciate as part of the town’s history, even outside the festival dates.

Another cultural highlight is “La Entrega,” a religious folk play performed by local actors in Feria’s square. The Casa Museo de la Cruz displays award-winning crosses from the Juegos Florales, a cross on display and the play’s principal characters. A video exhibition covers the making of the crosses, the auto sacramental “La Entrega” and the procession. The theatre, objects and film topics give the festival a range of cultural expressions.

Walking Trails and Landscapes

You can also explore the surrounding area through its landscapes. A walking trail offers panoramic views across Tierra de Barros, as well as views of olive groves, a washhouse and traditional buhardas. A wide, well-maintained trail passes through olive groves and pastureland to the 18th-century Albuera dam. Check the trail conditions and access before setting out.

If you are looking for a hotel in Feria, your trip’s focus can guide your choice: the castle and keep offer architecture and history, Santa Cruz offers religious traditions, and the walking trails offer scenic experiences. Plan around the relevant opening hours, festival dates or trail conditions.

For the broader travel overview: Badajoz.