Shrine of San Mamés

The shrine of San Mamés, originally called the shrine of San Pedro de la Zarza, is located on the ruins of a Roman basilica. Built in the 13th century in the Mudejar style, it's an example of the so-called “repopulation" shrines. The building has a nave, two aisles, an apse and several later additions such as the porches, the bell tower and the caretaker's home.

The interior displays mural paintings from the 14th to the 17th centuries, depicting scenes such as the Last Supper, Saint Christopher, the Annunciation and an allegorical scene of the Apostle James and the Christian conquest of Aroche. Geometric patterns on the pilasters complete the decorative programme.

The shrine is home to the patron saint of Aroche, San Mamés, who is thought to have travelled from the north during the repopulation of Castile-León after the conquest or in connection with the activity of La Mesta, the powerful association of livestock owners. A popular pilgrimage is held at the end of May in Los Llanos de la Belleza.