Castle of Préjano

Castle of Préjano is a medieval fortress overlooking the town of Préjano in the La Rioja region of northern Spain. Perched on a small hill to the northwest of the settlement, it has served as a visible landmark for the surrounding countryside for centuries.

What will you see there?

The centerpiece is a pentagonal keep roughly 15 metres tall, built in the 15th century. Its unusual five-sided layout and battered (sloping) walls set it apart from the more typical square towers found elsewhere in Castile. The tower forms part of a modest rectangular defensive enclosure — the original fortress was considerably larger, but this central structure is what has survived to the present day.

Although the standing tower dates to the 15th century, the defensive use of the hill goes back much further. Historians point to an earlier fortification already present in the 11th century, and some trace the origins of the site's fortifications to the early medieval period under Muslim rule. The castle underwent a thorough restoration between 2007 and 2019, so visitors today can see the tower in noticeably better condition than in previous decades.

What is the history behind it?

The fortress's story is closely tied to the wider history of La Rioja and to rivalries among noble families. In 1151, King Alfonso VII granted the town and its castle to Martín Ferrández, likely as a reward for his service as alcaide (governor) of the nearby city of Calahorra. By 1288, the stronghold had passed to the Order of Calatrava, a military-religious order that granted Préjano together with the neighbouring town of Enciso to the knight Vela Ladrón de Fuevara for life.

The tower seen today was built in the 15th century under Garci Franco de Valladolid. He subsequently lost the castle to King Henry IV of Castile as punishment for backing the king's brother, the Infante Alfonso, in a succession dispute. By a royal privilege issued in 1465, Henry IV transferred the fortress to García Manrique, son of the Adelantado Pedro Manrique — a member of one of Castile's most powerful noble houses at the time. Around 1498, Antonio Franco held lordship over the castle, and in later centuries the property passed to the Marquises of Gastañaga.

How do you get there?

Préjano lies in the southern part of La Rioja, in a scenic stretch of foothills leading into the Sierra de la Demanda. The tower is visible from the town itself, and reaching the hilltop typically takes only a short, moderately steep walk along accessible paths that require no special preparation. It's a rewarding stop for travellers who enjoy combining a historical site with a brief scenic walk — the summit offers views over the valley and surrounding hills.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring and early autumn are the most comfortable seasons, with mild temperatures and the landscape around the castle at its most attractive. In summer, the hilltop can get hot around midday with little shade, so it's worth timing the climb for the morning or late afternoon.

Frequently asked questions

Can you go inside the castle? The tower is a restored historical structure, and interior access can vary — it's best to check current conditions locally or with the regional tourist office before visiting.

How long does a visit take? Walking up to the hill and viewing the tower from the outside usually takes 30–45 minutes, depending on your pace and how many stops you make for photos.

Is there an entrance fee? Visiting the exterior of the castle is generally free, as it functions as an open viewpoint above the town.

Are there other attractions nearby? The town of Préjano itself, with architecture typical of La Rioja's smaller settlements, and the surrounding Sierra de la Demanda foothills, make good complements to a visit to the castle.