The baptismal basin of Hernán Cortes
The area of Medellín was, in my opinion, the most interesting part of Extremadura for a variety of reasons. And while its historic district is in the shadow of other historic districts like that of Mérida, it is still impressive in its own right.
The historic district of the Villa de Medellín was founded in 79BC and is home to one of the city’s most interesting relics: the Church of San Martín. This building dates back to the 12th century and was built on the ruins of a temple dedicated to the Roman god Pluto. It was declared a Historic-Artistic Monument in 1990.
Part of its importance is derived from the fact that it’s one of the oldest medieval religious structures in Badajoz. Another claim to fame is that it was the place where Hernán Cortes was baptized in the year 1485.
Later on, in the 14th and 15th centuries, Gothic-style additions like the doorway in the southern façade were added. The Church of San Martín is easy to find since it’s right at the foot of the Castle of Medellín. The trail that takes you back to the fortress is the same one that leads you to the church.
There’s no doubt that this is one of the must-see stops for all who come visit this town’s lovely historical district.
