ALCÁNTARA

Alcántara is situated at the confluence of the rivers Tajo and Alagón. Its situation, as well as the proximity to the Portuguese border, was determinant to its physiognomy.

Several historians affirm that this town may be the  “Norba Caesarea” of the Lusitans. Others relate Alcántara with “Colonia Caesarina” and “Interamnia” that  means “between the rivers”. We notice a notorious Roman presence but were the Arabs, in the 7th century, that gave the definite name of “AL-Kantara” (meaning "the Bridge). The town was definitely conquered by King Afonso IX and gave it to the Order of Calatrava. The Order had to defend it of the Arabian attacks.

The Roman Bridge, a magnificent work of engineering, initiated in the epoch of Trajano (year 105) and built by the architect Julio Lacer. The monument has 61 m of height, 194 m of length and 8 m of width.  Near the bridge, we have a small temple in honor of Trajano and  Romuleos, while in the other extreme the Tower of the Gold, built in 1778, in the time of king Carlos III.

Not less representative, the Convent of San Benito, a very beautiful Gothic monument. Walking on the streets of Alcántara, you will be able to see a lot of marvellous monuments.