VP15 - Cáparra - Baños de Montemayor - 28,5 km

Stage from Cáparra to Baños de Montemayor: A Path Rich in History

In this stage of the Camino de Santiago, pilgrims continue their journey along the Vía de la Plata, exploring natural landscapes, ancient Roman remains, and historic towns full of charm. From Cáparra, we follow the route towards Baños de Montemayor, a prominent stop along the Vía de la Plata.

Leaving Cáparra: Crossing the Road and Streams

We leave Cáparra and begin following the Roman road. Soon, we cross the road towards Guijo de Granadilla. The path takes us across several streams before reaching a cement track along the canal, which we follow until we reach the road towards Zarza de Granadilla. Here, we follow a short stretch of the road and then leave it again to the left, crossing a bridge.

Towards Aldeanueva del Camino and the Ascent to the Puerto de Béjar

Continuing on the path towards the northeast, we cross the N-630 and arrive at the nearby Aldeanueva del Camino. After leaving the village behind, we begin the ascent to the Puerto de Béjar, an important climb that takes pilgrims along the road connecting to Baños de Montemayor. This stretch, especially challenging, is done on a parallel path that begins at the junction with the road to Hervás.

Baños de Montemayor: A Roman-Origin Thermal Refuge

Once in Baños de Montemayor, we reach a place of great historical and cultural significance. Baños de Montemayor is famous for its Roman baths, which have been in use for centuries and continue to operate today as one of the main thermal centers in Extremadura. This location is a mandatory stop for those following the Camino de Santiago, offering both physical rest and an immersion in history.

History of Baños de Montemayor

This small town was an important crossing point on the Vía de la Plata, which ran north to south across the region. During the Roman era, the baths of Baños de Montemayor were well-known, and the population grew around them. Additionally, the town is interesting for its belonging to two different dioceses: Plasencia and Coria. On its territory, there are two churches, one dedicated to Santa María and another to Santa Catalina, which today serves as a cultural auditorium.

Santa Rosa de Lima and Her Connection to Baños de Montemayor

A curious fact is that Santa Rosa de Lima, the first saint of the Americas, has a historical connection with Baños de Montemayor. Her father, Gaspar Flores, was born in this town before emigrating to the Americas. The figure of Santa Rosa de Lima is closely tied to the history of the city of Lima in Peru, and her life and miracles are a testament to the devotion she inspired in thousands of people.