Badajoz facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Badajoz Badajos
Municipality
Panoramic view Alcazaba Puerta de Palmas Plaza Alta City Hall
Flag Coat of arms
Country	Spain
Autonomous Community	Extremadura
Province	Badajoz
Comarca	Tierra de Badajoz
Founded	c. 875
Founded by	Ibn Marwan (over a previous Visigothic settlement)
Area
• Total	1,470 km2 (570 sq mi)
Elevation  (AMSL)	185 m (607 ft)
Population  (2025-01-01)
• Total	150,209
• Rank	302
• Density	102.2/km2 (264.7/sq mi)
Time zone	UTC+1 (CET)
• Summer (DST)	UTC+2 (CEST (GMT +2))
Postal code	70862
Area code(s)	+34 (Spain) + 924 (Badajoz)

Badajoz is an important city in Spain, located in the region of Extremadura. It's the capital of the Badajoz province and sits right next to the border with Portugal, on the Guadiana River. About 150,000 people live here, making it the largest city in Extremadura.

Badajoz was founded a very long time ago, around the year 875, by a nobleman named Ibn Marwan. For many years, it was an important city under Moorish rule, known as Baṭalyaws. Later, in 1230, it became part of the Kingdom of León. Today, Badajoz is a busy place with a rich history, connecting central Spain with Portugal through roads, railways, and an airport. It's also known for its efforts to work closely with nearby Portuguese cities like Elvas and Campo Maior.

History of Badajoz

Ancient Times in Badajoz

Long, long ago, people lived in the Badajoz area even during the Bronze Age. Archaeologists have found ancient tombs from about 4000 BC and special stone carvings from later times. They also discovered old weapons, pottery, and jewelry. Even older tools from the Lower Paleolithic period have been found!

When the Romans arrived in Spain around 218 BC, Badajoz became part of their big empire. Although Roman history doesn't mention Badajoz much, we know Romans lived here because of villas found in the area. Later, people from the Visigothic kingdom also built things nearby.

Founding and Medieval Times

Badajoz became a really important city during the time of the Moorish rulers. A nobleman named Ibn Marwan officially founded the city around 875. He had been asked to leave Mérida, so he started a new settlement here. For a while, Badajoz was like its own small kingdom.

In the 11th century, it became the capital of a Muslim kingdom called the Taifa of Badajoz, with about 25,000 people. During this time, Badajoz was called Baṭalyaws and was a center for culture and learning.

Christian rulers eventually took control of Badajoz. Alfonso IX of León captured the city on March 19, 1230. After this, a special church area called a bishopric was set up, and work began on the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista.

Throughout the Middle Ages, Badajoz faced many challenges, including conflicts with Portugal. In 1336, the King of Portugal tried to take the city, but Castilian-Leonese troops defended it.

A Jewish community lived in Badajoz from the 11th century until 1492. When Jews were asked to leave Spain, Badajoz became a place where many refugees passed through on their way to Portugal.

The first hospital in the city was started in 1485. In the 16th century, Badajoz saw a burst of creativity with famous painters like Luis de Morales, composers, and writers. Important meetings also happened here, like one in 1524 between Spain and Portugal to discuss their territories.

Later, in 1580, Philip II of Spain briefly moved his royal court to Badajoz. The city thrived for a while without wars. Many people from Badajoz even traveled to the Americas during the Spanish conquest. However, in 1640, the city was attacked during the Portuguese Restoration War.

Battles and Sieges (1660–1811)

Badajoz was a key city because of its location near the border. It was often involved in battles, especially with Portugal. In 1660, the Portuguese attacked the city. Later, during the Spanish War of Succession in 1705, Badajoz was controlled by different groups before Spain regained it.

In 1801, Spain and Portugal signed the Peace Treaty of Badajoz, an agreement that changed some land ownership and affected trade. However, this agreement was later changed in 1807.

During the Peninsular War, French forces tried to capture Badajoz several times but failed in 1808 and 1809. In 1811, a French force finally took the city. British and Portuguese armies tried to get it back, even winning a battle nearby, but had to stop their siege.

The Storming of Badajoz (1812)

General Sir Thomas Picton storming the Castle of Badajos. 31 March 1812

Siege of Badajoz. Watercolour en grisaille by Richard Caton Woodville Jr.

In 1812, Arthur Wellesley, who would later become the Duke of Wellington, led another attempt to capture Badajoz from the French. The siege began in March, and by April, there were weak spots in the city walls.

On April 6, British divisions launched a fierce attack. It was a very difficult battle, and many soldiers were lost on both sides. After a long fight, the British managed to capture the castle and other parts of the city, successfully taking Badajoz. After the city was captured, there was a period of disorder before control was restored. Wellington himself hoped he would never have to put his troops through such a challenge again.

Modern History of Badajoz

After these wars, Badajoz continued to grow. During the Spanish Civil War, Badajoz was taken by the Nationalists in the Battle of Badajoz. Even though some people moved away to other parts of Spain or Europe after 1960, the city became a major center for business and services. Today, it's an important link between Spain and Portugal for trade and culture.

In 1997, a heavy flood hit several parts of the city, causing damage and affecting many homes. This was caused by strong rains that made the local streams overflow.

Geography of Badajoz

Badajoz is located in the southwest of Spain, right on the border with Portugal. It sits on the banks of the Guadiana River. The city is about 61 kilometers (38 miles) from Mérida and 227 kilometers (141 miles) east of Lisbon, Portugal. The newer parts of the city are mostly on the right side of the river.

The city was built on a limestone hill next to the Guadiana River. On this hill, you can find the Alcazaba, one of the city's most famous landmarks. Badajoz is about 185 meters (607 feet) above sea level. The highest points are hills like Cerro del Viento and Fuerte San Cristóbal.

Badajoz Climate

Badajoz has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate. This means it has mild winters and very hot summers, with temperatures sometimes reaching 40°C (104°F) or more. The average yearly temperature is about 17.3°C (63.1°F). July is usually the hottest month, and January is the coldest.

The city doesn't get a lot of rain, with most of it falling in December. July is the driest month. Badajoz enjoys a lot of sunshine, with about 2,950 hours of sun each year!

Population of Badajoz

In 2010, Badajoz had about 150,376 people living there. Slightly more women lived in the city than men.

Even though Badajoz is the most populated city in Extremadura, it has a low population density. This is because its municipal area is very large, covering 1,470 square kilometers (568 square miles). The population includes the main city and many smaller towns and villages.

Source: INE

Note: The increase shown in 2001 was reduced because of the independence of the municipalities of Valdelacalzada and Pueblonuevo del Guadiana in 1993.

City Government and Areas

Badajoz is where many government buildings for the province and the city are located. It's also the birthplace of an important Spanish statesman, Manuel de Godoy.

Badajoz Neighborhoods

Badajoz has many different neighborhoods, each with its own character. Some of these include:

Badajoz Districts

The city also has several districts, which are smaller areas within the municipality.

Economy of Badajoz

Caja Badajoz HQ (2017).

Base General Menacho-Botoa-Badajoz.

IFEBA

For a long time, Badajoz was not a very rich city, and there wasn't much industry. However, its beautiful historic buildings and those in nearby Mérida started attracting visitors, which helped tourism grow. In recent years, new businesses and factories have also started up.

Today, Badajoz is mainly a commercial city. It's an important place for trade with Portugal because of its location. The main shopping street, Menacho, has many national and international stores. This area is a big outdoor shopping center that attracts thousands of Portuguese visitors every year.

Badajoz also makes things like linen, wool, leather goods, hats, pottery, and soap. To help with trade, a new fairground called Institución Ferial de Badajoz (IFEBA) was built in 2006. This center hosts many events, from trade shows to cultural festivals.

The city has a large industrial area called El Nevero, which is always growing with different types of companies. In 2008, a new, tall building called the Torre Caja Badajoz was built. It's 88 meters (289 feet) high and has 17 floors, making it the tallest building in Extremadura. Badajoz also has an airport and a conference center.

Notable Landmarks in Badajoz

Bell tower of the Badajoz Cathedral. 16th century

Badajoz is full of amazing buildings from Moorish and medieval times. The Alcazaba fortress is the most famous structure, showing off the city's Moorish past. It was once a very important fort for defending the border with Portugal. Today, it's home to the Archaeological Museum of Badajoz.

Many old monuments in Badajoz have been repaired and look great again. The city's restaurants, pubs, and nightlife are also popular, especially with visitors from Portugal. The 13th-century Badajoz Cathedral used to be a mosque and looks a bit like a fortress with its strong walls. It has unique windows in different styles: Gothic, Renaissance, and Plateresque.

Municipal Buildings

Ayuntamiento (Town Hall)

The Palacio de Congresos de Badajoz is a modern building designed by famous architects. The Palacio Municipal is where the City Hall is located. The current City Hall building dates back to 1852, with a clock added in 1889. It was renovated in 1937 to give it a consistent style, with expanded towers and new decorations.

Badajoz has several public libraries for its residents, including the Biblioteca Pública Municipal A. Dominguez and the Biblioteca Pública Municipal Pardaleras.

Historical Sites

Alcazaba de Badajoz

The Alcazaba

The Alcazaba is an ancient Moorish fortress built in the 9th century. It was strengthened in 1169 by the Almohad ruler Abu Yaqub Yusuf. This fortress was the main home for the rulers of Badajoz in the 11th and 12th centuries. The Torre de Espantaperros, a 30-meter (98-foot) tall tower, is part of the Alcazaba and once offered great views. A beautiful garden now surrounds this historic monument.

Vauban Fort

A military fort, known as the Vauban fort, was built in the 17th century. It was designed to defend Badajoz during a war between Spain and Portugal. Made of stone, brick, and concrete, it has eight strong bastions (parts of the wall that stick out) on its northern side.

La Giralda

La Giralda

La Giralda, located near Plaza de la Soledad, is a copy of the famous Giralda tower in Sevilla. It was finished in 1930 by a local businessman. This building has a beautiful neo-Arab style, decorated with colorful tiles and metalwork. It used to be a business office and is now considered for various cultural uses.

Puerta de Palmas

Puerta Palmas

The Puerta de Palmas was built in 1551. It has two round towers on either side of its entrance. The names of Prince Philip II and Emperor Charles V are written on the outside of the tower. The entrance faces east and has two arches decorated with the shield of Emperor Charles V. It was once used as a prison but has been renovated many times and is a famous entrance to the city.

Real Monasterio de Santa Ana

Monastery of Saint Anne

This is a Christian monastery in Badajoz, founded in 1518. It belongs to the Order of St. Clare and is located in the old part of the city. The monastery was largely rebuilt in the 18th century, but some of its original parts remain. The church inside has many altarpieces, paintings, and silver items.

Gardens and Parks

La Galera

The Jardines de la Galera date back to the 10th century. They are located within the Alcazaba, between the Torre de Espantaperros and the old wall. These gardens were reopened to the public in 2007 after being restored. They feature many different types of plants and trees, including myrtle, laurel, orange, lemon, and pomegranate.

Other parks in the city include Castelar Park, which has a pond and monuments, and the Lusiberia water and leisure park for fun activities.

Museums in Badajoz

Badajoz has several interesting museums:

• The Museo Extremeño e Iberoamericano de Arte Contemporáneo (MEIAC) shows art from Spanish, Portuguese, and Latin American artists.
• The Museo Provincial de Bellas Artes (Provincial Museum of Fine Arts) is the top art gallery in Extremadura. It has over 1,200 paintings and sculptures from the 16th to the 20th century, including works by famous artists like Luis de Morales and Francisco de Goya.
• The Museo de la Ciudad "Luis de Morales" ("Luis de Morales" City Museum) is believed to be the home of the Renaissance painter Luis de Morales and displays many of his works.
• The Museo Arqueológico Provincial (Provincial Archaeological Museum) is inside the Alcazaba fortress. It has ancient items from the Province of Badajoz, organized into different historical periods like prehistory, Roman, and medieval Islam.
• The Museo Catedralicio (Cathedral Museum) is at the cathedral and tells the history of the building and the archdiocese.
• The Museo Taurino (Bullfighting Museum) shows items related to bullfighting.
• The Museo del Carnaval (Carnival Museum) opened in 2007 and displays costumes from the city's carnival celebrations.

Plazas and Squares

Plaza Alta

Plaza de España

Plaza de España is in the center of the city, with the large cathedral as its main feature. Plaza Alta, which has been recently restored, was the city's main square for centuries. The famous flamenco guitarist Paco de Lucía even performed there in 2013.

Old Residential Buildings

Badajoz has some beautiful old houses. Casa Álvarez-Buiza, built between 1918 and 1912, is a private house and shop complex with an Andalusian style. Casa del Cordón is a private house from the early 16th century with unique windows. Casa Puebla, built in 1921, is another great example of regional architecture.

Cemeteries

The oldest cemeteries still in use in Badajoz are Cementerio de San Juan and Cementerio de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad. The Cementerio de San Juan dates back to before 1839.

Bridges of Badajoz

View of the Guadiana, Puente Real bridge and the Caja Badajoz building

Badajoz has five bridges, and four of them cross the Guadiana River.

Puente de Palmas

The Puente de Palmas, also known as Puente Viejo (Old Bridge), is the oldest bridge in Badajoz. It was first built in 1460 but was damaged by floods and rebuilt several times over the centuries. It now has 32 spans and is about 600 meters (1,969 feet) long.

The Puente de la Universidad, or Puente Nuevo (New Bridge), was built in 1960. The Puente de la Autonomía Extremeña was finished in 1990 and connects to major roads. The Puente Real is a suspension bridge completed in 1994, linking the city to Portugal and other centers.

Culture and Education in Badajoz

Badajoz has been the home of many talented artists, musicians, and writers. These include actors like Luis Alcoriza, writers such as Arturo Barea, and singers like Rosa Morena.

The Institución Ferial de Badajoz (IFEBA), started in 2006, is not just for business but also a big cultural center. It hosts many events, from horse racing to dance performances. The main theater in Badajoz is the Teatro López de Ayala, a beautiful white theater with 800 seats, where you can watch plays, operas, and concerts.

Flamenco music and dance are very popular in southern Spain, including Badajoz. You can often see flamenco performances in places like Plaza Alta. The city also has a classical music group, Banda Municipal de Música, which started in 1867. The Municipal School of Music in Badajoz teaches about 600 students how to play instruments and sing.

The "Feria de San Juan" festival is held every year from June 23 to July 1. It's a big event that attracts people from Spain and Portugal, featuring bullfights and other celebrations. Because Badajoz is so close to Portugal, you'll find Portuguese restaurants and pastries in the city, and many residents often visit Portugal.

Badajoz is also home to a campus of the Universidad de Extremadura (UNEX), located on the west side of the river. This university was founded in 1968 and has branches in other cities in Extremadura.

Religion in Badajoz

Façade of the Badajoz Cathedral.

Badajoz is an important center for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Mérida-Badajoz. The Badajoz Cathedral (Cathedral of St. John the Baptist) is the main church, built in a gothic style in 1284. It has been renovated many times over the centuries. The cathedral displays paintings by the local Renaissance artist Luis de Morales. Its 41-meter (135-foot) tall tower was built in 1542.

Las Adoratrices Convent in Badajoz

Adoratrices is a small chapel dedicated to St. Joseph, built to remember the arrival of Christians with King Alfonso IX. It was damaged during a war but was rebuilt in 1917.

Other religious buildings include the San Andres and La Concepcion churches from the 13th century, and the Real Monasterio de Santa Ana. The Ermita de la Soledad is a Gothic-style chapel that was rebuilt in 1931.

Sports and Recreation

Football

Badajoz has a strong football tradition. The city's main football club is CD Badajoz 1905, which was formed in 2012 by supporters of the older club, CD Badajoz. They play their home games at Estadio Nuevo Vivero. Another club, Badajoz CF, also plays in the city.

Basketball

The city's basketball club was AB Pacense, formed in 2005. They played in the Liga EBA and used Polideportivo La Granadilla as their home arena. The club stopped playing in 2013.

Golf

Badajoz has two golf courses. The Don Tello Golf Course is a 9-hole course built in 1994, located by the Guadiana River. The Guadiana Golf Course is an 18-hole course built in 1992, known for being a bit challenging with its many water features and trees.

Transport in Badajoz

A Portuguese train type 0350 (number 0354) at Badajoz Railway Station

Badajoz Airport, near Talavera la Real

The Badajoz railway station is in the north of the city. It handles long-distance and medium-distance trains run by the company Renfe. This is the last Spanish train station before trains cross into Portugal. There are plans for a new station with high-speed train services connecting Madrid and Lisbon. Since August 2017, the Portuguese national railway company, Comboios de Portugal, has offered daily service from Badajoz to Entroncamento, with connections to Lisbon and Porto.

Badajoz Airport is about 13 kilometers (8 miles) east of the city center. It shares its runway and control tower with the Talavera la Real Air Base, which is used by the Spanish Air Force. The airport currently has flights to Barcelona and Madrid, operated by Air Nostrum.

Healthcare in Badajoz

The first hospital in Badajoz, the Hospital de San Sebastián, was founded in 1694.

Today, Badajoz is part of a healthcare region that includes several nearby towns. The city has several hospitals, including Hospital Universitario de Badajoz, Hospital Perpetuo Socorro, and Hospital Materno Infantil. There are also various clinics available for healthcare needs.

Notable People from Badajoz

• Pedro Acedo Penco (1955), politician
• Pedro de Alvarado (1485–1541), conquistador of much of Central America
• Estefanía Domínguez Calvo (born 1984), Spanish professional triathlete
• Manuel Godoy (1767–1851), Spanish Secretary of State
• Luis de Morales (1509–1586), painter
• Rosa Morena (1941–2019), New flamenco singer
• Cristóbal Oudrid (1825–1877), pianist, conductor and composer
• Porrina de Badajoz (1924-1977), flamenco singer
• Toñi Salazar (born 1963), singer and composer
• Encarna Salazar (born 1961), singer
• Juan Salazar (born 1954), flamenco singer
• Enrique Salazar (1956–1982), singer and composer
• José Salazar (born 1958), singer and composer
• Pepa Bueno (1964), newsreader, journalist
• Hernando de Soto (1497–1542), conquistador and explorer; first European to reach the Mississippi River
• Juan Vásquez (ca. 1500, ca. 1560), Renaissance composer
• Francisco F. Nogales (1946), pathologist

Town Twinning

Badajoz is twinned with these cities, meaning they have a special friendship and cooperation:

See also

In Spanish: Badajoz para niños

• Badajoz bastioned enclosure
• List of municipalities in Badajoz