TrujilloOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt

From Roman Settlement to Moorish Fortress

Trujillo's origins date to Roman times, when it was known as Turgalium. Roman settlement evidence, including inscriptions and wall remnants, has been found in the area, particularly around the current Alcazaba. After the Roman Empire, the Visigoths held the area, though their presence left fewer marks on the city's architecture. The most significant early influence on the city's layout and defenses came with the arrival of the Moors in the 8th century. They fortified existing Roman and Visigothic structures, transforming the hilltop into a fortress, the Alcazaba, which still stands. The city's name, Trujillo, is believed to derive from the Arabic 'Turyulu', a version of its Roman name.

Reconquista and Conquistador Wealth

The Christian Reconquista of Trujillo was prolonged, with the city changing hands multiple times before its capture by Ferdinand III of Castile in 1232. This period saw the construction of many churches and defensive structures that define the old town today, such as the Church of San Martín de Tours and the Church of Santiago. The 15th and 16th centuries were Trujillo's golden age, fueled by wealth from the Americas brought by its famous sons, the Conquistadors. Figures like Francisco Pizarro, conqueror of Peru, and Francisco de Orellana, the first European to navigate the Amazon River, were born here. Their fortunes funded the construction of palaces and manor houses, many of which still stand around the Plaza Mayor and throughout the old town. These buildings display a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Mudéjar architectural styles. The Palacio de los Marqueses de la Conquista, with its plateresque facade, is an example of this era's construction.

• —Plaza Mayor — The central square of Trujillo, surrounded by arcaded buildings and Renaissance palaces. It features the equestrian statue of Francisco Pizarro, a bronze work by Charles Rumsey. The Palacio de los Marqueses de la Conquista, with its corner balcony, is located here.
• —Alcazaba de Trujillo (Castle) — Located at the highest point of the city, the castle provides views of the Extremadura countryside. Its origins are Roman, fortified by the Moors from the 9th to 12th centuries, and rebuilt by Christians after the Reconquista. Visitors can walk along its battlements and explore its towers.
• —Church of Santa María la Mayor — Trujillo's main church, built between the 13th and 16th centuries, shows Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance elements. Inside, the altarpiece by Fernando Gallego is a work of Spanish Gothic painting.
• —Palacio de Orellana-Pizarro — This Renaissance palace on Calle de Hernando Pizarro has a plateresque facade and an inner courtyard. It was the residence of the Orellana family, related to Francisco de Orellana.
• —Church of San Martín de Tours — Located on the Plaza Mayor, this church dates from the 14th to 16th centuries. Its exterior contains an interior, and its tower offers a view of the square.
• —Pizarro's Birthplace (Casa Museo de Pizarro) — This house on Calle de la Encarnación is believed to be where Francisco Pizarro was born. It functions as a museum dedicated to his life and the Conquistador era.

The best times to visit Trujillo are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these months, temperatures are typically 18°C to 25°C, suitable for walking. The light is clear, good for photography. The 'Chiviri' festival, a traditional celebration of Easter Sunday, brings music and dancing to the Plaza Mayor. Avoid July and August, when temperatures can exceed 35°C, making daytime exploration difficult. Many local businesses may operate on reduced hours due to the heat. Winters (November to March) are generally mild but can be damp and chilly, with fewer daylight hours.

Trujillo is explored on foot, as most historical sites are in the old town. Be prepared for stone streets and uphill sections, especially to reach the castle. The nearest major airport is Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD), approximately 250 km away. From Madrid, a direct bus to Trujillo takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. There is no train station in Trujillo; the closest is Monfragüe-Plasencia, requiring a bus or taxi connection. If driving, public car parks are available around the old town's periphery, such as Parking Gratuito Trujillo on Calle Encina. Many smaller streets in the historic center are pedestrianized or have restricted vehicle access. Expect a siesta period, typically 2 PM to 5 PM, when many shops and some smaller restaurants may close. The main market day is usually Thursday, held outside the old town.