The Spanish region of Extremadura, renowned for its natural parks and rich historical heritage, is home to countless hidden gems. Among them are tiny villages that, despite their small populations, stand as genuine rural relics worthy of travelers’ attention. Naturally, the question arises: which one holds the title of the least populated? This small town, with fewer than a hundred residents, is a vivid example of how authenticity and traditional rural life continue to thrive in Extremadura.
The Heart of Cáceres: Pedroso de Acim
Among the many municipalities of the provinces of Cáceres and Badajoz, Pedroso de Acim holds the distinction of having the smallest population. This settlement lies in the northern part of Cáceres, about 60 kilometers from the administrative center and close to the historic town of Coria. Nestled in a quiet area at the foot of the Sierra de Gata mountain range, it is home to just 92 permanent residents, according to the National Institute of Statistics for 2024. The area is noted for its pastoral charm, landscapes dotted with pastures and oak groves, and serves as one of the finest examples of Extremadura’s small towns that continue to resist the process of depopulation.
What to see in the smallest corner of the region
Although Pedroso de Acim is small in size, it still offers visitors several interesting sights. Here are a few things you shouldn’t miss in this town. The main attraction is the Palancar Monastery, founded in the 16th century by Saint Pedro de Alcántara and known as the smallest monastery in the world. In honor of the saint, a monument stands in the main square. The Plaza Mayor itself is the vibrant heart of the municipality and a gathering place for locals, where you’ll also find the town hall. On the outskirts, there is the chapel of Santa Bárbara, which can be reached on foot, and one of the most iconic architectural features is the Clock Tower.
A life in harmony, away from the rush
Settling in Pedroso de Acim means embracing tranquility, where close neighborly ties are a part of everyday life. Life here moves at a gentle pace, far from the noise and stress of big cities, fostering close connections and direct contact with nature. Though the infrastructure is modest, this place offers the chance to reconnect with tradition and enjoy a quality of life rooted in simplicity. Its proximity to the famous ‘Silver Route’ (Ruta de la Plata), which historically linked the south of Andalucía to northern Spain, passing through Castilla y León and Asturias, opens up opportunities for hiking and exploring natural landscapes, making it an appealing option for both living and leisure.
A record for size: the mystery of Valle de Santa Ana
In terms of territorial size, the most compact municipality in Extremadura is Valle de Santa Ana. Located in the southwest of the province of Badajoz, in the comarca of Sierra Suroeste, this quiet town covers just about 3.7 square kilometers, which is rare for the region. Its modest size, home to just over a thousand people, is due to its origins: it was formed by splitting off land from Jerez de los Caballeros, by which it is now entirely surrounded. The area’s terrain, with its rugged landscapes, also played a role in shaping these borders.
Besides Pedroso de Acim, there are other municipalities that stand out for their small population and unique charm. Notable among them are Benquerencia in Sierra de Montánchez, Ruanes with its traditional architecture, Campillo de Deleitosa with picturesque trails, and El Carrascalejo, known for its parish church and proximity to Mérida.
