Castle of Castilnovo

Castle of Castilnovo stands in the municipality of Prádena, in the province of Segovia, Castile and León, Spain.

The fortress rises in the valley of the San Juan river, between the villages of Villafranca and Valdesaz, just 8 km from the walled town of Sepúlveda and roughly 50 km from the city of Segovia. A park of oaks, junipers and poplars surrounds the walls, giving the castle one of the most scenic settings among the fortified sites of the region. On 3 June 1931 it was declared a Bien de Interés Cultural, Spain's designation for a property of cultural significance.

What can you see?

Castilnovo blends Arab-era origins with Mudéjar architecture: its walls alternate courses of stone and brick, creating a distinctive banded texture across the facades. Six towers make up the defensive ensemble — three circular and three square — crowned by the imposing keep, the torre del homenaje. This combination of tower shapes is unusual among castles in the Segovia region and is the single best reason to stop here even briefly.

What is the history behind it?

The castle's ownership traces the shifting fortunes of Castilian nobility. In the 16th century it passed to the Velasco family, Constables of Castile and Dukes of Frías. By the 19th century it belonged to the Catholic branch of the Hohenzollern family, and in 1859 Prince Frederick William Constantine sold the estate to the Catalan painter José Galofre. Galofre carried out a major restoration, taking care to preserve the Mudéjar character of the building — the reason the castle still looks much as it did centuries ago.

How do you get there?

Castilnovo sits in a quiet rural corner of the Segovia province, so arriving by car is the most practical option. The nearest well-known landmark is Sepúlveda, only a few kilometres away, making it easy to combine a visit to both sites in a single day trip through the region.

When should you visit?

The castle remains privately owned, belonging to a Spanish-Mexican association that uses it as a venue for weddings and events and also offers accommodation. Because of this, public access is limited and the castle opens to visitors only on occasion. It's best to check current visiting arrangements before planning a trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is the Castle of Castilnovo located? In the municipality of Prádena, province of Segovia, in the San Juan river valley between Villafranca and Valdesaz, near Sepúlveda.

What architectural style does the castle show? Mudéjar, recognizable by the alternating stone-and-brick walls and its six towers — three circular and three square.

Can visitors tour the castle? It is a private property used mainly for weddings and events, so tours are only possible on occasional open days.

Why was it declared a cultural heritage site? Its architectural uniqueness and historical value earned it Bien de Interés Cultural status on 3 June 1931.