Villafranca de los Barros, municipality in the province of Badajoz, Spain
Villafranca de los Barros is a town in the province of Badajoz, set in the fertile Tierra de Barros region where clay soil supports vineyards and olive groves. Streets feature old buildings with simple facades, small shops, and cafes that form the everyday rhythm of the place.
Human settlement here dates to the Paleolithic period, with Romans later using it as a station on the Via de la Plata road. The modern town developed after the 14th century Reconquista, when it became independent from Mérida and took the name Villafranca.
The name Villafranca means 'free town,' reflecting its status gained in the 14th century after independence from Mérida. Locals gather in squares and cafes throughout the day, where you can observe community life and witness traditions passed down through generations.
Visitors can walk through streets to explore old churches, shrines, and small museums that reveal local history. The town lies about 27 miles (43 km) from Mérida and 45 miles (73 km) from Badajoz, making it accessible for day trips or extended stays.
The region is known for Torta de Barros, an award-winning cheese with protected designation of origin rooted in local tradition. Artisan craftsmanship in wood and metal work is preserved here, and visitors can find handmade furniture and decorative objects.
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