16th-century parish church declared a Site of Cultural Interest in Casas del Castañar.
Municipality
Casas del Castañar
Suggested visit time
Not available
Access
Mixed
The Church of Saint John the Baptist is the main religious building in Casas del Castañar and one of the most important historical landmarks of the village. It was originally built in the 16th century, although later renovations, particularly in the 17th century, introduced Baroque elements to the structure. The church consists of a single nave divided into three sections by semicircular arches and a polygonal apse covered by a dome supported by pendentives. The construction combines masonry with ashlar stone reinforcements in structural elements. One of the most distinctive exterior features is the prismatic bell tower located next to the apse, composed of two levels and topped with a four-sided roof. Inside the church, visitors can see historical elements such as an ancient baptismal font that originally belonged to the abandoned settlement of La Asperilla, whose inhabitants later moved to Casas del Castañar. The church was declared a Cultural Heritage Site (Bien de Interés Cultural) with monument status in 1990.
Address
Calle Iglesia, Casas del Castañar (Valle del Jerte, Cáceres)
The church is located within the urban centre of Casas del Castañar, in the upper area of the historic quarter. It can be accessed from the N-110 road by taking the turn-off towards the village and, once inside, following the main streets to the central square and the surroundings of the church, which are easily explored on foot.
It can be visited throughout the year, both during worship hours and on specific occasions when the church is open to visitors. It is especially interesting to coincide with local or religious festivities, when the building has greater liturgical activity.
BAJA
Resource access level
It is recommended to include the church as part of a walking route through the historic centre of Casas del Castañar, observing both the architecture of the temple and the surrounding traditional houses. Inside, visitors should maintain a respectful attitude, avoid noise, and follow any guidelines regarding photography or access to chapels.
Access to the interior of the church may be limited to certain opening hours, so it is advisable to check in advance with the parish or local tourist office. On rainy days, the surrounding pavement may be slippery, so caution is recommended while walking.