Badajoz history

Foundation and First Mentions

Although traces of human presence in this region date back to prehistoric times, the official history of Badajoz as a city begins during the era of Arab rule. The city was founded in 875 by the Muslim commander Ibn Marwan. Initially, the settlement was named Batalyaws, which transformed over time into its modern name.

Key Factors of Development

The transformation of a small fortress into a significant urban centre was driven by several important factors:

• Advantageous Geography: The city was established on La Muela hill, providing excellent visibility and natural protection, on the banks of the mighty Guadiana River.
• Political Will: Ibn Marwan founded the city as a stronghold for his rebellion against the Emirate of Cordoba, immediately giving Badajoz the status of an important political and military hub.
• Strategic Position: Its proximity to the borders (which later became the border with Portugal) made the city a key node for defence and territorial control.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

During its early development, especially during the Taifa period (independent Muslim principalities), Badajoz experienced a cultural and economic flourishing. It was a city of scholars, poets, and artisans.

The economy was built on agriculture in the fertile river valley and trade. The main architectural legacy of that era is the Alcazaba — a powerful citadel which is still considered one of the largest in Europe today and serves as a reminder of the city's rich historical past.

Major Milestones in the History of Badajoz

The history of Badajoz is inextricably linked to its border location and strategic importance on the banks of the Guadiana.

• 875: The Muslim commander Ibn Marwan founds the city on La Muela hill, laying the first fortifications.
• 1031: After the fall of the Caliphate of Cordoba, Badajoz becomes the capital of an independent Taifa (principality) and experiences a cultural bloom.
• 1230: King Alfonso IX of León reconquers the city from the Moors, definitively annexing it to Christian dominions.
• 1524: An important diplomatic congress takes place in the city between Spain and Portugal to resolve disputes over the ownership of the Moluccas Islands.
• 1580: King Philip II temporarily moves his court and army here before the campaign to unite the Iberian crowns.
• 1658: The city withstands a long siege by Portuguese troops during the Portuguese Restoration War, confirming its status as an impregnable fortress.
• 1801: The Treaty of Badajoz is signed here, ending the short "War of the Oranges" between Spain and Portugal.
• 1812: During the Peninsular War, Anglo-Portuguese troops under the command of the Duke of Wellington storm the city, liberating it from French occupation.
• 1866: The opening of a direct railway connection with Madrid gives a powerful boost to the trade and economic development of the region.
• 1973: The founding of the University of Extremadura transforms Badajoz into a modern student and scientific centre.
• 2006: The opening of the new Palace of Congresses, designed by architects SelgasCano, marks an era of modern architecture in the city.

Key Stages of City Development

The evolution of Badajoz is a journey from a closed border fortress to an open European centre of trade and services. Below are the main milestones that defined the modern appearance and economy of the city:

• Golden Age of the Taifa (11th Century)
  During this period, Badajoz became the capital of an independent kingdom, leading to a significant expansion of the urban area. The Alcazaba was strengthened, and the historical street layout, which remains in the Old Town (Casco Antiguo) to this day, was formed.
• Construction of the Bastion System (17th–18th Centuries)
  Due to constant wars with Portugal, the city was surrounded by powerful walls in the Vauban style. This urban planning decision limited the physical expansion of the city for centuries but formed a unique architectural ensemble that is now a magnet for tourists.
• Railway Revolution (1866)
  The opening of the Madrid–Lisbon line turned Badajoz into a strategic logistics hub. The station became a focal point for trade, allowing the city to emerge from isolation and begin developing exports of local agricultural produce.
• "Badajoz Plan" (from 1952)
  A large-scale state project for the irrigation and electrification of the region. It radically changed the economy: subsistence farming was replaced by a powerful agro-industry, which caused a demographic boom and the active construction of new residential districts outside the fortress walls.
• Opening of the University of Extremadura (1973)
  The appearance of a higher education institution transformed the social structure of the city. Badajoz became a centre of attraction for youth, stimulating the development of the service sector, housing rental market, and cultural life.
• Creation of the Eurocity Badajoz-Elvas (2013)
  An agreement on strategic partnership with the neighbouring Portuguese city of Elvas. This effectively erased borders: the cities jointly develop tourism, transport, and infrastructure, creating a unified economic space.
• Revitalization of the Guadiana Banks (21st Century)
  A massive environmental and urban project turned the riverbanks from neglected zones into a huge linear park. This changed the quality of life for citizens, providing modern spaces for sports and leisure.

Architectural Appearance: A Crossroads of Cultures

The architecture of Badajoz is a visible chronicle of its border history. The city developed not as a lavish royal residence, but as a strategic outpost, which left an imprint of severity and functionality on its ancient buildings. However, behind the powerful walls lies a surprising blend of styles: from Arabic script to bold modern forms.

Islamic Period (Almohads)

The most ancient layer of urban development, defining the silhouette of the historical centre.

• Style: Military Islamic architecture. Characterised by the use of rammed earth (tapial), horseshoe arches, and powerful crenellated walls.
• Iconic Landmarks:
  • Alcazaba: One of the largest preserved Moorish citadels in Europe. Its walls and towers dominate the city.
  • Torre de Espantaperros: An octagonal tower from the 12th century, which became the architectural prototype for the famous Torre del Oro in Seville.

Gothic and Renaissance

After the Reconquista, the city began to change its appearance, yet the proximity of the border required caution: even religious buildings were constructed with an eye towards potential defence.

• Style: Restrained Gothic, transitioning into Plateresque and Renaissance.
• Iconic Landmarks:
  • Cathedral of San Juan Bautista: A unique example of a "fortress-cathedral". Externally, it looks severe and massive (Gothic buttresses, square tower), but the interior impresses with Renaissance elegance and richness of decor.

Military Baroque and Neoclassicism

The 17th and 18th centuries turned Badajoz into an impregnable fortress due to constant conflicts with Portugal. Urban planning was subordinated to the needs of the army.

• Style: Fortification architecture (Vauban system) and strict Classicism in administrative buildings.
• Iconic Landmarks:
  • Bastioned Wall (Muralla Abaluartada): A star-shaped system of fortifications encircling the centre.
  • Puerta de Palmas: The grand entrance to the city with two cylindrical towers, which has become the symbol of Badajoz.

Eclecticism and Regionalism (19th–20th Centuries)

In times of peace, the city began to adorn itself. Architects strove to imitate the styles of great capitals, adding local flavour (Andalusian influence).

• Style: Eclecticism, Neo-Mudéjar, Regionalism. Use of brick, ceramics, and wrought iron.
• Iconic Landmarks:
  • La Giraldilla: A building in the city centre whose tower is a replica of the Giralda in Seville, topped with a statue of Mercury.
  • Plaza Alta: One of the most picturesque squares in Spain. Its facades are decorated with geometric patterns in the Mudéjar style, creating a unique visual rhythm.

Modernity and Postmodernism

In the 21st century, Badajoz actively integrates bold architectural solutions into the historical landscape, creating new points of attraction.

• Style: Avant-garde, High-tech, Organic architecture.
• Iconic Landmarks:
  • Palace of Congresses (Palacio de Congresos): A project by the SelgasCano studio. A futuristic ring-shaped building that is "hidden" inside an old bastion, standing out with semi-transparent coloured materials.
  • MEIAC Museum: The Ibero-American Museum of Contemporary Art, successfully integrated into the structure of an old prison and bastion, symbolising the transition from a repressive past to an open cultural future.
  • Puente Real Bridge: A cable-stayed bridge with a high pylon, which has become a symbol of the city's modern development.

Distinguished Personalities of Badajoz

Badajoz has been the birthplace of many talented individuals whose names are forever inscribed in the history of Spain and the world. From medieval rulers to masters of art, these figures have brought fame to their city far beyond its borders.

• Ibn Marwan al-Jilliki (9th Century)
  City Founder, Commander
  A key figure in the history of the region. It was he who founded Badajoz in 875, transforming it into an independent and fortified centre. Thanks to his political will, the city became an important strategic point on the map of the Iberian Peninsula.
• Pedro de Alvarado (1485–1541)
  Conquistador, Governor
  One of the most famous Spanish conquerors of the New World. He was the right-hand man of Hernán Cortés during the conquest of Mexico and later led expeditions to Guatemala and El Salvador. Despite a controversial reputation, he remains one of the most significant figures of the Age of Discovery.
• Luis de Morales "El Divino" (1509–1586)
  Painter
  An outstanding painter of the Spanish Renaissance, nicknamed "The Divine" (El Divino) for his exceptional mastery in depicting religious subjects. His works, distinguished by special dramatic effect and Mannerism, adorn many museums worldwide, including the Prado, but his life and work were closely tied to Badajoz.
• Manuel Godoy (1767–1851)
  Statesman, Generalissimo
  Favourite of King Charles IV and Queen Maria Luisa, who twice held the post of First Secretary (Prime Minister) of Spain. He received the title "Prince of the Peace" (Príncipe de la Paz). Godoy was one of the most influential political figures in Europe of his time, and it was in his hometown that the important Treaty of Badajoz of 1801 was signed.
• Cristóbal Oudrid (1825–1877)
  Composer and Conductor
  An important figure in the history of 19th-century Spanish music. Oudrid was one of the pioneers of the Zarzuela genre (Spanish operetta) and the author of the famous piece "The Siege of Zaragoza". His work contributed to the revival of national musical traditions.
• Adelardo Covarsí (1885–1951)
  Artist
  A painter whose canvases celebrated the landscapes and daily life of Extremadura. He played an important role in the cultural life of the city, serving as director of the School of Arts and Crafts of Badajoz. His works possess ethnographic value, capturing the traditions of the region.
• Porrina de Badajoz (1924–1977)
  Flamenco Singer
  José Salazar Molina, known by the stage name Porrina de Badajoz, became a flamenco legend. He possessed a unique performance style and charisma, making the local singing style (jaleos extremeños) popular throughout Spain. A monument to him stands in the historical centre of the city.