Montánchez

Although the earliest references to Montánchez date from 1095, when it was one of the Muslim fortresses in the Realm of Badajoz, remains found throughout the area reveal an unknown past, dating back to the Bronze Age, or earlier.

Montánchez was also settled by the Romans and Goths before the Muslims, and all of these have left behind traces of their presence. On its elevated hilltop, Montánchez castle was originally Roman, but was subsequently rebuilt and expanded by the Almohads. 

The Order of Santiago has also had a powerful influence on Montánchez, as this was its largest base in Upper Extremadura (Caceres province). In the 15th and 16th centuries, the castle, like many other military fortresses in Extremadura, was transformed into a residence for the Order's commanders and leadership.

Strolling around the streets and browsing the shops, you will be able to try myriad culinary delights, with a wide variety of cured meats, including salchichón, patatera, chorizo, lomo ibérico and morcón. But, more than any of these, Montánchez is most famous for the ham that bears its name, as it is the centre of a ham production area and its Iberian ham route. You will not be able to stop eating or resist buying this Dehesa de Extremadura Designation of Origin Product.