Puntos de Interés
Hostel
Parador de Benavente
A historical enclave that overlooks the Vía de la Plata
Halfway between León and Zamora, dominating a a crossroads of ancient pathways, stands the Parador de Benavente on the remains of the castle of Los Pimentel. The Parador includes the Renaissance Torre del Caracol, which is home to a magnificent Mudejar coffered ceiling and a period bar.
The décor, with tapestries, cast iron lamps and handmade materials will transport you to another age. The Gardens of La Mota that surround it, and the spectacular views over the valleys of El Tera and El Órbigo, make it the ideal place to relax, with spots such as the swimming pool and terraces where guests can take it easy and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
Benavente was one of the most important stopping points on the Vía de la Plata, and as such its castle was an important political centre; a place where the union of the kingdoms of Castile and Leon was celebrated, and where Carlos V held his first council after being declared emperor.
The castle-palace was commissioned by the Counts of Benavente as an extension of the already 12th c. existing castle. The Renaissance style Torre del Caracol, completed in 1504, was one of the most important additions, and is now the architectural emblem of the Parador.