A new point of interest has appeared on Spain’s historic travel map—a must-see for visitors. Hidden in the region of Extremadura lies a remarkable town that seamlessly blends a rich heritage, literary traditions, and a vibrant cultural program that comes alive every summer. Amid its sunlit squares and traditional streets, travelers encounter a majestic church and a unique Roman-era monument that has become the symbol of this place.
This is Spain’s newly crowned “New Magical Town,” Salamea de la Serena, which earned the title in 2025. Life here revolves around two landmarks: the parish church of Nuestra Señora de los Milagros and the Roman distyle—a two-column monument rising above the main square. But the town’s real claim to fame is its annual “Alcalde de Salamea” theater festival. During the event, the entire town becomes a living stage for the famous play by Calderón de la Barca, written in 1636 and inspired by real events of 1580, with local residents themselves taking on the leading roles.
Beyond its theater, Salamea de la Serena fascinates visitors with its centuries-old history. During Roman times, the settlement was known as Julipa and flourished under Emperor Trajan. Later, it was shaped by the Visigoths and Arabs before passing into the hands of the Order of Alcántara. The town’s turbulent past is reflected in the ruins of its castle, the historic Arribalavilla district, and a remarkably well-preserved Roman water cistern. The palace of Don Juan de Zúñiga holds a special place in its history, once serving as an intellectual hub where the humanist Antonio de Nebrija worked on creating the first Castilian grammar.
For those looking to explore the surroundings, the region offers plenty of fascinating sites. Just a few kilometers away is the Cancho Roano archaeological complex, regarded as a sanctuary of the Tartessian civilization. The Cueva del Valle cave, home to ancient relics, and the Tórtola de la Vieja dolmen are also well worth a visit. The landscapes around the town, with their oak groves and reservoirs, are perfect for hiking or scenic drives. In this way, Salamea de la Serena offers a complete experience for lovers of cultural tourism and authentic adventures.
Incidentally, Pedro Calderón de la Barca is one of the greatest playwrights of Spain’s Golden Age. His play “El alcalde de Zalamea” is a drama centered on honor, inspired by a real historical event. The plot tells the story of a conflict between local townspeople and soldiers passing through. A peasant, Pedro Crespo, is elected alcalde (mayor) and delivers justice against a captain who has dishonored his daughter, defying the military hierarchy. The play explores themes of justice, honor, and the dignity of ordinary people. It is this very work that made the small Extremaduran town famous worldwide.
