Carcaboso: Roman milestones, Santiago traditions and the Cruz de Mayo

Carcaboso appeals to travelers interested in Roman landmarks, the Way of St. James and local traditions. Archaeological milestones, the Iglesia de Santiago Apóstol and the Cruz de Mayo give the town a range of historical and cultural points of interest. If you are looking for a hotel in Carcaboso, these themes can help you get a sense of the town as a travel destination.

Roman road and milestones

The Parque de Los Miliarios is classified as an archaeological site on the Roman road and is located in the municipality of Carcaboso in the province of Cáceres. The park contains several milestones that were brought to Carcaboso from the Vía de la Plata. They marked the miles along the Roman road. Their function gives the stones a concrete connection to the region’s history of transport and routes.

The park is next to the Parroquia de Santiago Apóstol. Two milestone columns from the reigns of the emperors Trajan (98–117) and Hadrian (117–138) stand beside the Iglesia de Santiago Apóstol. The parish church also preserves several milestones in its entrance portico and dates from the 16th century. This means you can encounter the landmarks in different settings: as part of the archaeological site and in the church’s surroundings.

The Way of St. James and route information

The Centro de Interpretación Los Miliarios focuses on both the Roman road and the Way of St. James along the Vía de la Plata. The exhibition includes a small ethnographic collection of objects lent by residents of Carcaboso. The center provides all the information needed to undertake the Way of St. James. Check visiting arrangements before your trip.

There is also regional route information for cyclists: the Extremadura section of the Camino de Santiago Vía de la Plata is divided into five stages. This adds a regional route-planning framework to Carcaboso’s historical attractions.

Cruz de Mayo and local customs

The Cruz de Mayo festival is celebrated every year on the first Sunday in May; the exact proceedings may vary. The convivencia, or gathering, takes place in a picnic area on the right bank of the Jerte, where the river flows through Carcaboso. A branch decorated with roscas is the focus of the procession. After Mass, the offerings are auctioned.

A distinctive custom is Tirar la Malla: young women throw a flower-decorated jug into the river, which the newlyweds must then break with stones. The two traditions offer different insights into local customs. The Cruz de Mayo includes both the procession and auction, as well as gathering by the river; Tirar la Malla centers on the act involving the jug and stones.

Getting to Carcaboso

The main approach is via the A-66. Around the area of Plasencia, leave the motorway and take the EX-204 towards Carcaboso. Since the turnoff is only located approximately and road conditions or signage may change, check the current route before setting off.

Carcaboso therefore offers several distinct highlights to consider when planning your trip: Roman milestones and the Santiago church, information about the Vía de la Plata, and festivals and customs by the Jerte. Choose your hotel according to the kind of stay you have planned, and use the topics that matter to you to guide your preparations.

Discover more destinations: Cáceres, Montehermoso, Ladrillar, Plasenzuela, Jarilla, Grimaldo, Acehuche, Peraleda de la Mata.

Back to the main travel overview: Cáceres.