Cultural
Heritage
Heritage
Alfaro’s Historical Legacy
Alfaro’s monumental heritage is concentrated in a compact urban area, allowing visitors to explore centuries of history in just a few minutes.
Roman-era sites, traces of the Andalusian period, and churches and palaces from the 17th and 18th centuries form a collection that reflects the town’s historical evolution.
Key elements of this past that can be visited include:
- The archaeological site of Graccurris
- The Roman Nymphaeum
- The permanent Graccurris exhibition hall
Graccurris, the Roman Legacy
Before becoming Alfaro, this territory was known as Ilurcis until 179 B.C., when Tiberius Sempronius Gracchus founded the Roman city of Graccurris.
Today, this legacy can be explored at the archaeological site of Eras de San Martín and the Roman Nymphaeum, a monumental fountain dedicated to the worship of nymphs, a unique example of special interest on the Iberian Peninsula.
Collegiate Church of San Miguel Arcángel
Declared a Cultural Heritage Site, the Collegiate Church of San Miguel Arcángel is one of the most emblematic monuments in La Rioja.
Built between the 16th and 17th centuries, it is the largest church in the region and stands out for its distinctive brick architectural decoration, a feature that defines Alfaro’s urban landscape. It is also known for hosting one of the largest urban colonies of white storks on a single historic building in Europe.
Inside, the spectacular Baroque decoration includes:
- The main altarpiece, with a sculpture of Saint Michael by Gregorio Fernández, one of the great 17th-century Spanish sculptors
- The choir, with remarkable wrought-iron work of great artistic value
- Richly decorated chapels, such as the Araciel family chapel, which houses the tomb containing the heart of Archbishop Don Manuel Pérez de Araciel y Rada
Church of Nuestra Señora del Burgo
The Church of Nuestra Señora del Burgo is dedicated to Alfaro’s patron saint and is an essential part of the town’s religious and cultural identity.
Traditional events such as the September 8th procession and the singing of La Aurora take place around the church.
Visiting it allows one to understand the devotional and festive dimension of the town.
Convent of Las Concepcionistas
The Convent of Las Concepcionistas has been restored and houses a permanent exhibition that acts as a cultural gateway to the region, enhancing the interpretation of historical heritage and expanding Alfaro’s cultural offerings.
Civil Architecture and Noble Palaces
In the historic center, palaces and stately homes with heraldic shields on their facades reflect the historical presence of the landed nobility.
- Abacial Palace
- Sáenz de Heredia Palace
- Ramírez Palace
- Bullring
This ensemble helps to understand Alfaro’s economic and social development in the 17th and 18th centuries.
Festivals and Traditions
The festive calendar is part of Alfaro’s identity, combining religious tradition, popular culture, and gastronomy. Highlights include festivals of Regional Tourist Interest, such as La Quema de los Judas.