Discover the Charm of Badajoz

• HelloHola
  [oh-la]
• GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [no]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fa-vor/de na-da]
• Thank youGracias
  [gra-thyas]
• Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [per-don/lo see-en-to]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [ko-mo es-tas]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byen. ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ab-las in-gles]
• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [no en-tyen-do]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver la carta, por favor
  [me goos-ta-ree-a ver la kar-ta, por fa-vor]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [no ko-mo kar-ne]
• Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sa-lood]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [me goos-ta-ree-a pa-gar, por fa-vor]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [a-yu-da]
• Go away!¡Vete!
  [ve-te]
• Call the Police!¡Llama a la Policía!
  [ya-ma a la po-li-thya]
• Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
  [ya-ma a un me-di-ko]
• I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [es-toy per-dee-do]
• I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [es-toy en-fer-mo]

• I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [me goos-ta-ree-a kom-prar]
• I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [so-lo es-toy mee-ran-do]
• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-to kwe-sta]
• That's too expensiveEso es demasiado caro
  [e-so es de-ma-sya-do ka-ro]
• Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
  [pwe-des ba-har el pre-thyo]

• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [ke o-ra es]
• It's one o'clockEs la una
  [es la u-na]
• Half past (10)Y media (10)
  [ee me-dya (10)]
• MorningMañana
  [ma-nyana]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tar-de]
• EveningNoche
  [no-che]
• YesterdayAyer
  [a-yer]
• TodayHoy
  [oy]
• TomorrowMañana
  [ma-nyana]
• 1Uno
  [oo-no]
• 2Dos
  [dos]
• 3Tres
  [tres]
• 4Cuatro
  [kwa-tro]
• 5Cinco
  [theen-ko]
• 6Seis
  [says]
• 7Siete
  [syet-te]
• 8Ocho
  [o-cho]
• 9Nueve
  [nwe-ve]
• 10Diez
  [dyez]

• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está un/el...?
  [don-de es-ta un/el]
• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal es la di-rek-thyon]
• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes enseñarme (en el mapa)?
  [pwe-des en-se-nyar-me (en el ma-pa)]
• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-do es el pro-si-mo (au-to-bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un billete (a ...)
  [oon bee-yet-te (a)]

Badajoz, located in the Extremadura region of Spain, has roots that trace back to ancient times. Originally inhabited by the Celts, the area later fell under Roman control around the 2nd century BCE. The Romans established the settlement of Pax Augusta, which laid the groundwork for the city's future development. Remnants of Roman engineering, such as roads and aqueducts, can still be traced in the region.

In the 8th century, following the Islamic conquest of the Iberian Peninsula, Badajoz was founded as Batalyaws by the Moors in 875 CE. The city became a significant center of Islamic culture and power, reinforced by the construction of the Alcazaba of Badajoz, a massive fortress that still stands today. The city's strategic location made it a crucial stronghold in the region.

The Reconquista brought significant changes to Badajoz. In 1230, King Alfonso IX of León captured the city from the Moors, incorporating it into the Kingdom of León. This marked the beginning of Christian rule in Badajoz. The city became a vital military and administrative center, with new Christian constructions like the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista replacing older Islamic structures.

During the late Middle Ages and early modern period, Badajoz played a pivotal role in the intermittent conflicts between Spain and Portugal. The Treaty of Badajoz in 1801, which ended the War of the Oranges, is a notable event, illustrating the city’s strategic importance. The fortifications of Badajoz were repeatedly strengthened to withstand sieges and attacks.

Badajoz was a significant battleground during the Peninsular War, part of the Napoleonic Wars. The Siege of Badajoz in 1812 saw British and Portuguese forces, led by the Duke of Wellington, capturing the city from French control in a brutal and bloody battle. The aftermath left a profound impact on the city's structure and population.

Badajoz was heavily affected during the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939). The Battle of Badajoz in 1936 resulted in Nationalist forces capturing the city. The subsequent massacre, where thousands of Republican defenders and civilians were executed, remains a dark chapter in Badajoz's history. The city's role in the civil war is a somber reminder of the conflicts that have shaped modern Spain.

In the post-Franco era, Badajoz has experienced a cultural and economic renaissance. Modernization efforts have revitalized the city's infrastructure, while preserving its rich historical heritage. Badajoz today is known for its vibrant cultural festivals, such as the Carnival of Badajoz, which attracts visitors from all over Spain and beyond. The blending of historical and contemporary elements makes Badajoz a unique destination.

Badajoz is located in the Extremadura region of Spain, close to the Portuguese border. The nearest major airport is Badajoz Airport (BJZ), about 14 kilometers from the city center, which offers domestic flights. For international travelers, the closest major international airport is Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) in Portugal, around 230 kilometers away. From Lisbon, you can rent a car or take a bus to Badajoz. Alternatively, you can reach Badajoz by train or bus from Madrid, which is approximately 400 kilometers away.

Badajoz is well-connected by public transportation. The city has an efficient bus system operated by Tubasa, which covers most parts of the city. Taxis are also readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. For those looking to explore the surrounding areas, car rental services are available in the city. Badajoz is also a bike-friendly city, with several bike rental shops and dedicated cycling paths.

The official currency in Spain is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Badajoz. ATMs are plentiful and can be found throughout the city for cash withdrawals. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments or local markets.

Badajoz is generally a safe city for tourists, but standard precautions should always be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. The city center and popular tourist spots are generally safe, but be cautious in the Cerro de Reyes and Los Colorines neighborhoods, which have higher crime rates. Always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places to avoid pickpocketing.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which connects you to police, fire, and medical services. The main hospital in Badajoz is Hospital Universitario de Badajoz, offering comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress smart-casual, especially when dining out or visiting cultural sites. Avoid overly casual attire like flip-flops and beachwear in the city center. Religion: Do respect religious customs, especially when visiting churches. Dress modestly and keep noise to a minimum. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket when boarding buses. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A kiss on both cheeks is common among friends and acquaintances. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like jamón ibérico and migas. Don’t rush through meals; dining is often a leisurely affair.

To experience Badajoz like a local, visit the Mercado de San Juan, a traditional market where you can buy fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city’s history and culture. Don’t miss the Alcazaba of Badajoz, one of the largest Moorish fortresses in Spain, offering stunning views of the city. For a unique evening experience, enjoy a stroll along the Guadiana River or visit one of the local tapas bars in the old town.