A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Benavente: A Historical and Cultural Treasure in the Heart of Zamora

Introduction

Benavente is a charming town located in the province of Zamora, in the autonomous community of Castile and León, in the northwest of Spain. With a rich history dating back to Roman times, Benavente is a tourist destination that offers a unique blend of historical heritage, natural beauty, and traditional gastronomy.

Historical Heritage

One of the main attractions of Benavente is its impressive architectural heritage. The Castle of the Counts of Benavente, built in the 12th century, is one of the city's most emblematic monuments. Although much of the original structure has been destroyed, the keep, known as the Torre de la Mota, still stands and offers spectacular panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

Another point of interest is the Church of Santa María del Azogue, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture dating from the 13th century. The church houses a number of religious artworks, including a Renaissance altarpiece and a carving of the Virgin of Azogue.

Nature and Environment

Benavente is surrounded by stunning natural scenery. The Río Órbigo, which flows through the city, offers opportunities for fishing and canoeing, as well as for relaxing walks along its banks. In addition, the city is close to the Sierra de la Culebra, a mountainous area known for its rich fauna, including wolves and deer.

Gastronomy

Gastronomy is another of Benavente's attractions. The city is famous for its Zamorano cheese, a sheep's cheese cured with an intense and characteristic flavor. Other typical dishes include bacalao a la tranca, a dish of cod cooked with garlic and paprika, and Aliste beef, a high-quality beef from the Zamora region.

Festivals and Events

Benavente hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year that attract visitors from all over Spain. Highlights include the Fiestas de la Veguilla, which are celebrated in April and are dedicated to the Virgin of the Vega, and the Fiestas del Toro Enmaromado, a bullfighting tradition that takes place in June.

Gastronomic Products of Benavente

• Zamorano Cheese

  Zamorano Cheese is one of the most emblematic products of the region. This sheep's cheese, with a protected designation of origin, is known for its intense flavor and firm texture. It is made in a traditional way, following the traditions of the region, which guarantees its high quality.

• Wine from the Land of Zamora

  Benavente is located in the wine region of the Land of Zamora, which produces high-quality wines with a wide variety of grapes. The wines from this region are known for their robust flavor and excellent value for money. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings at the numerous wineries in the area.

• Fuentesaúco Chickpeas

  Fuentesaúco chickpeas are another product with a protected designation of origin from the Benavente region. These chickpeas are known for their large size, thin skin, and mild flavor. They are an essential ingredient in many traditional dishes of the region, such as the maragato stew.

• Serena Cheese

  Another outstanding dairy product from the region is the Serena Cheese, a sheep's cheese with a protected designation of origin. This cheese is made with merino sheep's milk, and is known for its creamy texture and mild, slightly bitter flavor.

Sports Activities in Benavente (Zamora)

Hiking

Benavente offers hiking trails that allow you to enjoy its rich flora and fauna. You can explore the Camino de Santiago, which passes through the city, or the Marshes Route.

Cycling

The varied terrain of Benavente makes it an ideal place for cycling. You can rent a bike and explore the city or venture into the nearby mountain trails.

Fishing

The Órbigo River, which passes through Benavente, is known for its trout fishing. You can also try your luck at the numerous reservoirs and lakes in the area.

Golf

If you like golf, you can visit the Benavente Golf Club. This 18-hole course offers panoramic views of the city and is suitable for players of all levels.

Water Sports

In the reservoirs near Benavente, you can practice water sports such as canoeing, paddle surfing, or sailing.

Places near Benavente

If you are in Benavente and wish to explore a bit more, here we present you with some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Puebla de Sanabria, a charming medieval village in Spain, offers a rich history, impressive architecture and delicious local cuisine. Enjoy its castles, churches and the famous Sanabrian trout, a must-try traditional dish.

Santa Cristina de la Polvorosa, a charming Spanish village, offers a rich culinary experience with its famous Zamorano cheese and wine from the region. Its historic streets and parish church are a delight for lovers of culture and history.