Clustered with medieval and Renaissance buildings, Trujillo is a historic town in the Spanish community of Extremadura. It was originally established as a fortification atop a granite knoll and became an important town following the region’s 8th-century Islamic conquest. Legend says that Christian forces saw an image of the Virgin Mary between the castle towers before taking the town in 1232.
Things to do in Trujillo
Overlooking Trujillo is the hilltop Castillo, which was constructed by the Moors between the 9th and 12th centuries. It is notable for its horseshoe-shaped arch and eight towers, from where you can enjoy magnificent views across the town. A short climb leads to the hermitage of Our Lady of Victory, named in honour of Trujillo’s patron saint.
In the heart of town is the Plaza Mayor de Trujillo, which centres around an equestrian statue of the Spanish conquistador, Francisco Pizarro. It is framed by medieval buildings that include the Iglesia San Martin de Tours, a Gothic-style church that dates back to the 14th century. You can learn more about the life and legacy of Pizarro at the Casa Museo de Pizarro.
Don’t miss the Museo de la Coria, which traces the artistic and cultural links between Trujillo and Latin America. It occupies a 15th-century monastery residence adjacent to the Puerta de la Coria. Housed within a former convent is the Museo del Traje Enrique Elias, which celebrates the work of the local fashion designer alongside traditional Spanish costumes.
Getting around Trujillo
Trujillo is around 30 minutes’ drive from Caceres and 2.5 hours from Madrid. Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport is also 2.5 hours away and has flights to destinations across the globe. Buses connect to Trujillo and the town centre is compact enough to explore on foot.