Look up at the magnificent crenellated parapet of Torre De Las Cigüeñas, the crowning feature of the stately residence of Capitán Diego de Ovando. The elegant structure dates back to 1480, when it was built alongside the remnants of the town’s old alcazar. Today, the building is a branch of the Ministry of Defense. Check out the centuries-old stonemasonry of the tower and the palace, as well as the adjoining Church of San Mateo. Make your way up to the tower’s upper reaches to see a breathtaking vista across the historic town.
Admire the high tower, which is topped with battlements and small corbels. At the time of its building, nobody was permitted to use the former alcazar to construct private fortifications and palaces. Queen Isabella made an exception to the decree for Diego de Ovando and the noble went on to build the stately Palacio de las Cigüeñas around the tower. “Cigüeñas” refers to the storks that were believed to nest in the tower’s high battlements.
Enter the building to find the cloistered patio nestled within. Stroll around this light-filled area and see if you can find the inscription of the building’s construction date. Check out a Weapons Museum curated by the Ministry of Defense. Make your way up several flights of stairs to see the expansive views afforded from the top. Imagine what the vista would have looked like in the 15th century as you look out across the terracotta-roofed buildings and stone-paved plazas.
The Torre De Las Cigüeñas is located in the Plaza de las Valetas in the eastern section of Cáceres’ historic center. Stroll around the perimeter of the historic structure for free or pay an inexpensive admission price to enter the museum and climb to the top of the tower. There are several restaurants in the surrounding streets, as well as some of Cáceres’ most significant attractions. Check out the nearby Museo de Cáceres and the Inglesia de San Francisco Javier.
