Parish Church of Santa María

The church of Santa María stands near the Plaza Vieja in the town of Guareña in the province of Badajoz and is one of the town's most emblematic monuments.

It was built over the remains of an old church which had stood on the same spot. Building work was started in 1557. The church is impressive for its monumental size, with a rectangular floor plan and an octagonal apse, with rounded windows opening high up in the walls. A white stone image by the entrance door is the main Renaissance element.

Access is gained to the interior through three doors and the single nave opens before the eyes of the visitor as a broad, brightly lit space. The impressive altarpiece has large dimensions and a Classical composition. Other notable items are the crucifix and the vestment drawers in the sacristy.