The origin of picota cherries dates back to the 18^th century, as a result of a terrible plague that wiped out the area’s traditional tree, the chestnut tree. To compensate for this significant loss, cherry trees were planted in its place, as there were some in the area and the climate was known to be suitable for their cultivation.

However, before the 18^th century, monarchs from different parts of Spain enjoyed what is now recognised as a real delicacy: picota cherries from the Jerte Valley.

Later, in the 19^th century, picota cherries and cherries from Extremadura were highly prized at the Court of Madrid.