Plasencia

Plasencia is a municipality in Cáceres Province on the right bank of the Jerte River, situated at an elevation of 415 meters (1,360 feet). The medieval double wall encloses the historic core with six gates and 68 defensive towers that shape the cityscape.

King Alfonso VIII of Castile founded the city in 1186 and granted it diocese status in the same year. In 1446, the first university in Extremadura was established here, offering new educational opportunities to the region.

The name comes from the Latin phrase "placeat Deo et hominibus," meaning may it please God and people. The Plaza Mayor serves as the social center where locals gather under the arcades and weekly markets take place.

Several city bus routes connect the different neighborhoods and help visitors navigate the historic center. Direct transport links lead to major cities in western Spain and allow convenient day trips to the surrounding area.

Two cathedrals stand directly next to each other: the old and the new cathedral show different construction periods and architectural styles. Construction on the new cathedral began in the 16th century but was never fully completed, so both buildings are used together today.

Location: Cáceres Province

Capital city: Plasencia

Elevation above the sea: 415 m

Part of: Red de Juderías de España

Shares border with: Aldehuela de Jerte, Carcaboso, Valdeobispo, Oliva de Plasencia, Cabezabellosa, Casas del Castañar, Gargüera de la Vera, Malpartida de Plasencia, Cañaveral, Holguera, Riolobos, Galisteo

Website: https://plasencia.es/web

GPS coordinates: 40.02750,-6.09083

Latest update: December 15, 2025 06:37