Zafra Attractions

The most imposing building in Zafra, in the center of the town, is the Gothic Alcázar (15th-16th C.) of the Dukes of Fería, dominated by a battlemented round tower - a good example of an old Spanish palace of Arab origin. It is now a Parador Nacional, a high-class hotel, boasting a marble patio attributed to Juan de Herrera.

To the north of the Alcázar is the collegiate church of La Candelaria, begun in 1546, which has a retablo (1644) painted by Francisco de Zurbarán. There is a small museum of sacred art.

The Convento de Santa Clara, founded in 1428 by the first Duke of Fería, contains a number of fine tombs, including those of the founder and his wife.

The sleepy, arcaded Plaza Chica is where the market used to be held.

The palm shaded Plaza Grande is surrounded by 18th and 19th century houses.