Churches, a palace with historic links to the Bishop of Badajoz, and Modernist architecture offer different ways to explore the history of Miajadas. They are joined by an agricultural tradition and an Easter pilgrimage. This makes it possible to get to know the town through its architectural history and local customs.
Churches and architectural history
The Iglesia de Santiago Apóstol is protected as a Bien de Interés Cultural in the Monument category. An official publication from 2020 records this classification. The church’s main construction phases date from the 15th to the 18th century. The architect Pedro de Ybarra played a key role in its construction between 1560 and 1570. The church’s long building history is thus linked to a specific phase shaped by Ybarra.
The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Belén dates back to the 18th century; the building was later completely remodelled. It is the only surviving one of the four former hermitages within the town centre. Its history therefore encompasses both later remodelling and links to the former hermitages in the centre of Miajadas.
The Palacio del Obispo SolĂs
The Palacio del Obispo SolĂs was built for Alonso SolĂs so that he could live there during his summer stays after being appointed Bishop of Badajoz. Today, the palace houses various municipal facilities related to culture, as well as the Museo Masa-SolĂs. Its original purpose and cultural use today represent two distinct chapters in the building’s history. If you are planning a visit, check the opening arrangements for the museum and facilities in advance.
Modernist architecture and surroundings
The Casa modernista is a two-storey building with two corner facades. Its upper semicircular balcony is decorated with plant motifs; the year 1921 appears on tiles. These details give the building a distinct architectural presence in the history of the town.
Another point of interest in the area is the Ermita de San Bartolomé: it lies a few kilometres from Miajadas, beside the Búrdalo River. The hermitage was extensively enlarged in the 18th century. Its development and riverside location offer two specific points of reference for understanding this place in its surroundings.
Agricultural tradition and pilgrimage
The Concurso del Tomate is a long-standing agricultural competition in Miajadas. Its 41st edition took place in August 2026. The event offers a different perspective on the town alongside its architectural history: it reflects the agricultural tradition expressed through the competition.
Local customs also include the traditional pilgrimage on Easter Monday in El Santo. In April 2026, its programme included a Mass at the hermitage, the drawing of lots for the processional arms, and a procession of the Virgen de Consolación and San Bartolomé in the surrounding area. The procession passes through the surrounding area and is not limited to the hermitage itself. Alongside the historic churches, palace and Modernist house, the pilgrimage offers another way to experience Miajadas through its religious traditions.
If you would like to focus your trip on architectural history and local culture, Miajadas offers a range of themes rather than just one historical viewpoint: from the construction phases of the Iglesia de Santiago Apóstol and the history of the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Belén to the palace, the Casa modernista and the traditions described here. When planning your visit, you can consider whether you are most interested in church and architectural history, the palace’s current cultural use, or agricultural and religious customs.
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For the wider travel overview: Cáceres.
