Monuments in Spain

Castle of Mejorada

Mejorada

Mejorada Castle rises above the small town of Mejorada in the province of Toledo, in Spain's Castilla-La Mancha region, close to Talavera de la Reina. Where did this fortress come from? The story begins in the late 13th century. On 9 July 1288, King Sancho IV granted the village and lands of Mejorada to a Castilian knight, Juan García de Toledo, making him the first lord of the estate. The fortress was raised as a statement of that new lordship, giving its owners a base from which to assert their privileges against the pretensions of the town council of Talavera. Over time the castle became the clearest symbol of noble power standing against the ecclesiastical authority of Talavera. What does the castle look like today? Most of what still stands dates from the mid-14th to the early 15th century. The stronghold was laid out on a square plan, with round towers anchoring each corner and a rectangular keep built into one of its walls. Through the 15th and 16th centuries, successive owners reshaped the fortress repeatedly, adapting it to changing defensive and residential needs. The castle's fortunes turned once its lords married into other noble houses holding larger, more prestigious estates elsewhere. Mejorada stopped serving as a seigneurial residence, and the building slowly slipped into decay; by the 19th century it stood in an advanced state of ruin. Archaeological digs have been carried out on the site since 1997, uncovering a good deal of its structure — in particular the remains of remodeling done at the end of the 15th and the start of the 16th century. Today the fortress survives as a ruin: the eastern and southern walls remain the best preserved, along with sections of the northern and western walls. How do you get there? The castle sits close to Talavera de la Reina, one of the larger towns in Toledo province, from where local roads lead out toward Mejorada. It makes a natural stop for travelers driving through the region between the city of Toledo and Extremadura. When should you visit? Castilla-La Mancha has a continental Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and cool winters. Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons for exploring an open-air ruin, with milder temperatures and better light for photographing the stone walls. Frequently Asked Questions What is Mejorada Castle? It is a medieval defensive fortress, today preserved as a ruin, built by the first lords of Mejorada in the province of Toledo. When was the castle built? Its origins trace back to the 1288 land grant, while the structure visible today dates mainly from the 14th and 15th centuries. Can you go inside the castle? The building is a ruin — mainly its perimeter walls survive, and the site has been under archaeological excavation since 1997. What else is nearby? The castle lies close to Talavera de la Reina, a good base for continuing on to other historic sites in Toledo province.

Castillo de Villahaleva

Torralba del Pinar

Castillo de Villahaleva is a ruined medieval castle overlooking Torralba del Pinar, a small village in the province of Castellón, in the Valencian Community. The fortress sits on a rocky hilltop between Torralba del Pinar and the neighbouring village of Ayódar, in the Alto Mijares district, commanding views over the Mijares river valley. What is the history behind the castle? The castle has Islamic origins, built between the 10th and 12th centuries to control the routes running through the Mijares valley and the mountain passes toward Villamalur. It once belonged to Zayd Abu Zayd, the last Muslim ruler of Valencia, who under the pact signed at Calatayud agreed to cede a portion of his lands, towns and strongholds to the King of Aragon. Following the reconquest carried out by the troops of James I of Aragon, the castle passed into the hands of the Crown of Aragon. Abu Zayd's son, Fernando, bequeathed the fortress to his heirs in a will drawn up in 1262, a document still preserved today in Valencia Cathedral. The local Morisco population remained in the area until their expulsion from Spain in 1609, after which the castle was gradually abandoned and fell into ruin. What will you see on site? What survives of the fortress today are fragments of defensive walls, many of them fused directly with the rocky outcrop on which the castle stands — the builders made full use of the natural terrain, giving the structure an irregular, polygonal layout. It is a modest fortification, sized to fit the limited space available on the rocky summit, with no towers or complete curtain walls remaining. Even so, the surviving layout makes the site's strategic purpose easy to read: from here, the entire surrounding valley and its communication routes lay in view. Castillo de Villahaleva is listed as a Bien de Interés Cultural, Spain's top heritage protection category, with a ministerial registration in force since 2007. How do you get there? There is no road access to the castle — it can only be reached on foot. The usual starting point is the village of Torralba del Pinar itself, from where a trail climbs to the summit of Cima del Pinar, opening up views over the Sierra de Espadán, before joining the GR-36 long-distance trail, also known as the Ruta Transespadán, which links Montanejos with La Vilavella across the Espadán mountain range. Reaching the ruins requires a reasonable level of fitness and proper hiking boots, since the terrain is rocky and steep in places. When is the best time to visit? Given the mountainous, largely unshaded terrain, spring and autumn are the best seasons for the hike, when temperatures are milder than in the height of summer. Walking the route around midday in summer can be demanding, as much of the trail offers little shelter from the sun on its rockier stretches. Frequently Asked Questions Can you drive up to the castle? No, the ruins are only reachable on foot — there is no vehicle access. How long is the hike to the castle? The circular route linking Torralba del Pinar, the Cima del Pinar summit and the castle covers around 9 kilometres and is rated as moderate difficulty. Who built the castle? It was built during the period of Muslim rule, between the 10th and 12th centuries, as a stronghold controlling the routes through the Mijares valley. Is the castle legally protected? Yes, Castillo de Villahaleva is listed as a Bien de Interés Cultural in Spain's heritage register, with a registration in force since 2007.

Castell de Querroig

Cerbère

Castell de Querroig is a ruined medieval watchtower perched above Cerbère, the last French town on the Côte Vermeille before the Spanish border. The ruins sit atop a ridge at 672 metres above sea level, exactly on the line separating France from Catalonia — the site borders the communes of Cerbère and Banyuls-sur-Mer on the French side and Portbou on the Spanish side. What is the history behind the tower? The site is first recorded in 981 as "Cario rubio," and again in 1385 as the "castrum de Carroig." The tower itself was built between the 13th and 14th centuries under the Kings of Majorca, who developed a chain of border watchtowers along the Pyrenean ridgeline. Querroig served as a lookout and signal post, monitoring the surrounding valleys and relaying warnings — by fire and smoke — to the neighbouring Madeloc tower further north. This relay system allowed the coast to be warned quickly of threats such as seaborne raids. After the 16th century the fortification lost its military purpose, was abandoned, and gradually fell into ruin. The French portion of the castle and its surrounding land was listed as a historic monument on 21 December 2016. Today the site is jointly owned by the French state, the commune of Cerbère, and the Catalan Generalitat de Catalunya — an unusual case of cross-border heritage management. How do you get there? There is no road leading to the ruins — access is on foot only, via marked mountain trails. The usual starting point is near the Cerbère railway station, from where the trail climbs the ridge toward a mountain pass before reaching the tower. Expect a rocky, steep path that calls for decent fitness and sturdy hiking boots; in summer, the lack of shade and the heat make it essential to carry plenty of water. The walk takes several hours, depending on which loop you choose — some routes pass through Banyuls-sur-Mer, others go directly from Cerbère. What will you see on site? The ruins themselves are modest today — mostly wall fragments and the base of the tower — but the real reward is the view. From the 672-metre ridge, a full 360-degree panorama unfolds: the Côte Vermeille and Costa Brava coastline, Spanish Catalonia toward Portbou and Cadaqués, and, on clear days, the Canigou massif, the symbolic mountain of Catalonia. Here the administrative border becomes almost invisible — walkers can cross freely between France and Spain along the ridge. When is the best time to visit? Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable conditions, with milder temperatures and less sun exposure on the exposed ridge. Summer hikes can be demanding due to the heat, so an early start is advisable. Winter is usually accessible too, though hikers should be prepared for the strong winds typical of this stretch of the Pyrenees. Frequently Asked Questions Is there an entrance fee for the ruins? No, access to the Querroig tower ruins is free — it's an open mountain site reached on foot via the hiking trail. Is the hike suitable for children? The steep, rocky sections and lack of shade make this a demanding route, better suited to older children used to mountain trails. Can you drive close to the ruins? No — there is no road to the tower itself, so the entire route must be covered on foot, typically starting near Cerbère. What makes Querroig different from other towers in the region? Its exact position on the France-Spain border and the fact that the site is jointly managed by both French and Catalan authorities.

Castillo de Uclés

Uclés

Castillo de Uclés stands above the small town of Uclés in the province of Cuenca, in the Castilla-La Mancha region of Spain. The castle crowns a hilltop fused with the enormous monastery later built on the very same site, together forming one of the region's most recognisable historical landmarks, sometimes nicknamed "El Escorial de La Mancha." How do you get there? Uclés sits inland in the province of Cuenca, reachable via regional roads that connect the area to both Madrid and the city of Cuenca. It's a small town with limited tourist infrastructure, so travelling by car is the practical option — the silhouette of the hill, crowned by castle and monastery, becomes visible well before you reach the town itself. What will you see? The site's history stretches back to the 9th century. In 896, Al-Fath ben Musa ben Dhi-l-Num — who three years earlier had made Uclés his home and the capital of the region — built a fortress here. The stronghold later played a dramatic role in Castilian history: the Battle of Uclés, fought in 1108, was one of the most tragic episodes of the Reconquista. In 1157 the castle passed to King Alfonso VII, who ceded it first to the Order of San Juan and then to the Order of Santiago. It was the Order of Santiago that turned Uclés into its central headquarters, a role that defined the site's importance for centuries. The turning point came in 1528, when the old fortress was torn down to make way for a grand monastery built in Herrerian style, meant to reflect the power and prestige of the Order of Santiago. Construction began in 1529 under Charles I and was only completed two centuries later, in 1735, under Philip V. Three towers from the original Islamic fortification survive today, linked by sections of wall. Among them stand out the Tower of Homage (Torre del Homenaje) and the Tower of Silver (Torre de la Plata) — the latter an albarrana tower, meaning it stands detached from the main structure and is connected to it by a bridge, a defensive feature typical of Islamic military architecture. Walking around the complex, visitors can trace the site's layered history — from Arab stronghold, to medieval headquarters of a military order, to monumental early modern monastery. The whole complex, comprising the Monastery of Santiago Apóstol together with the castle, is listed as a Site of Cultural Interest (Bien de Interés Cultural) in the Monument category. When should you visit? Castilla-La Mancha's inland climate brings hot summers and cooler, often windy winters, so spring and autumn offer the most comfortable conditions for exploring, with milder temperatures and the surrounding countryside at its most scenic. Frequently Asked Questions Are the castle and the monastery the same site? Yes — today's complex combines the surviving remains of the medieval castle (three towers and wall sections) with the monastery built between the 16th and 18th centuries directly on the site of the former fortress. Where does the nickname "El Escorial de La Mancha" come from? It refers to the monastery's monumental Herrerian architecture, stylistically associated with the famous Escorial near Madrid. Which military order was linked to Uclés? The Order of Santiago, which made the site its central headquarters after taking over the fortress in the 12th century. What else is worth seeing besides the towers? It's worth taking in the layout of the defensive walls and the view over the town of Uclés spread out at the foot of the hill — one of the reasons the site draws history and architecture enthusiasts alike.

Castle of Aledo

Aledo

Aledo Castle is a medieval fortress overlooking the town of Aledo in the Region of Murcia, Spain, perched on a ridge at the southern foothills of the Sierra Espuña mountains, roughly 125 metres above the Guadalentín valley. How do you get there? Aledo sits about 9 kilometres from the town of Totana, right at the gateway to the Sierra Espuña Regional Park. The easiest approach by car is to park near the town hall (Ayuntamiento) in the lower part of the village, then walk about five minutes up through the narrow streets of the old town to reach the castle and its keep. What will you see? The earliest documentary record of a stronghold at Aledo dates to 896, when it existed as a Muslim hisn, a fortified outpost. The castle itself was built in the 11th century by the Almoravids. In 1088, the Castilian nobleman García Giménez seized the fortress, taking advantage of the disarray among Muslim rulers following the fall of Toledo in 1085, but after three failed attempts to hold it, the Castilians withdrew and the castle reverted to Almoravid control. Christian forces conquered Aledo for good in the late 13th century, once the former Taifa of Murcia passed under the Kingdom of Castile, and the castle was entrusted to the military Order of Santiago. It was this order that rebuilt and expanded the fortress through the 13th and 14th centuries, raising the Torre del Homenaje, the square keep that still dominates the site today at nearly 20 metres tall. The tower preserves its Moorish building tradition: it was raised in tapial, or rammed earth, which gives its walls their distinctive reddish tone. Inside, three floors survive — the topmost still shows the ribs of pointed arches, while the lower levels retain narrow arrow slits, and the whole structure is crowned with battlements. From the terrace beside the keep, views stretch across the Guadalentín valley and the Sierra Espuña range, making this one of the best vantage points in the region. The Torre del Homenaje also houses Aledo's tourist information office, so a visit to the tower can double as a stop for practical tips on exploring the surrounding area. When should you visit? The castle can be visited for a fee, though the keep's opening hours are limited, so it's worth checking the current schedule with the town hall before heading up. The village of Aledo itself, with its narrow lanes and mountain views, is a popular stop for anyone touring the Sierra Espuña Regional Park — pleasant in spring and autumn for walking the old town and climbing to the castle, and equally rewarding in the warmer months if you plan the visit for the morning. Frequently Asked Questions Can you visit Aledo Castle? Yes, entry to the castle grounds and the Torre del Homenaje keep is possible for a fee, though opening hours are limited, so it's worth confirming them in advance. How far is Aledo from the nearest larger town? The nearest larger town is Totana, about 9 kilometres away. What is the castle's main highlight? The standout feature is the Torre del Homenaje, a nearly 20-metre keep built in tapial construction, with surviving medieval defensive details and sweeping valley views. Is the area good for hiking? Yes, Aledo lies at the entrance to the Sierra Espuña Regional Park, a popular destination for hikers and anyone looking for scenic mountain trails.

Castell d'Abella de la Conca

Abella de la Conca

Castell d'Abella de la Conca stands guard over the village of Abella de la Conca, in the Pallars Jussà region of Lleida province, Catalonia. The ruins crown a rocky ridge on the village's northern edge, a position chosen for its natural defenses and its command of the passes linking the Conca Dellà basin with Alt Urgell. What is the history behind the castle? The fortress dates back to the 11th century. The place-name "Abbelia" already appears in written records in 1033, making this corner of the Pyrenean foothills one of the more anciently documented settlements in the area. The castle served as the seat of the Barony of Abella, one of the historic baronies of Pallars Jussà, from where lords once oversaw the valley below and the routes crossing it. What can you see today? Little remains of the original stronghold beyond a scatter of stones, yet the outline of the fortress can still be traced on the ground. The best-preserved feature is a stretch of wall roughly 13 metres long and a metre thick, running east to west: it marked the southern edge of a rectangular structure whose northern side was simply the edge of the cliff itself. Standing on the exposed rocky spur, visitors can appreciate why medieval builders picked this spot, and take in sweeping views over the valley and surrounding Pyrenean ridges. How do you get there? Abella de la Conca sits in the heart of Pallars Jussà, a comarca in Lleida province set among the foothills of the Pyrenees. The castle ruins rise directly above the village on its northern side, so reaching them is simply a natural extension of a walk through the village itself. This is a destination best suited to travellers exploring Pallars Jussà by car, away from the region's more heavily visited routes. When is the best time to visit? Given the exposed, elevated setting, spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons, offering mild temperatures for walking over rocky ground and the clearest views across the Conca Dellà valley and neighbouring peaks. In summer, mornings or late afternoons are the better windows, avoiding the strongest midday sun on the unshaded hillside. Frequently Asked Questions What is Castell d'Abella de la Conca? It is the ruined remains of an 11th-century castle, once the seat of the Barony of Abella, perched on a rocky rise above the village of Abella de la Conca in Pallars Jussà. What has survived from the original castle? The main surviving feature is a stretch of wall around 13 metres long, which formed the southern boundary of the fortress's rectangular layout. Why was the castle built in this exact spot? The rocky ridge above the village offered natural defense and control over the passes connecting the Conca Dellà basin with Alt Urgell, making it a strategically vital location. Do you need special preparation to visit the ruins? The ground is rocky, so sturdy footwear is recommended, but the site sits right above the village itself, so no serious trekking experience is required.

Castillo de Pola

Torres de Berrellén

Castillo de Pola is a medieval fortress in the municipality of Torres de Berrellén, in the province of Zaragoza, in the Aragón region of Spain. Its ruins sit on a hilltop above the left bank of the Ebro River, between the towns of Torres de Berrellén and Remolinos, overlooking the site of a former settlement known as Pola. What is the history behind it? The fortification dates back to the period of Muslim rule in Al-Ándalus. Castillo de Pola formed part of the defensive line protecting Zaragoza, alongside other strongholds in the area such as Castellar, Santa Inés, Miranda and Rueda. In 1101, during the campaigns of King Pedro I, the castle passed into the hands of the Kingdom of Aragón. It also played a role in the 1118 siege of Zaragoza (then known as Saraqusta) by the crusading army of Alfonso I the Battler. After the Christian reconquest, the castle became royal property before passing through the hands of several noble families, including the houses of Luna, Urrea and Cerdán. At the foot of the hill lay a settlement once home to both Christian and Muslim inhabitants; it was abandoned by the 17th century at the latest. The structure itself is dated to between the 11th and 13th centuries. What can you see today? Little remains of the original stronghold beyond sections of walls built from stone and gypsum (aljez), largely blended into the surrounding landscape. Underground, a gallery survives leading to an old cistern (aljibe), and the foundations of what were likely tower structures can still be traced in places. Close by stand the ruins of two churches tied to the abandoned settlement: the church of Santa Elena, which retains a brick apse with traces of pointed arches, and the church of Santa Inés, also reduced to ruins. The whole complex — the castle together with the remains of the settlement and its churches — is registered as an archaeological zone under Aragón's cultural heritage law of 1999, with the formal listing published in the Boletín Oficial de Aragón in May 2006. How do you get there? The ruins stand on high ground near Torres de Berrellén, within the Ribera Alta del Ebro district, close to the Ebro River. Access is via local roads linking Torres de Berrellén with neighbouring Remolinos, with the final stretch to the ruins covered on foot up the hillside. Given the site's ruined state, it's worth visiting as part of a broader tour of heritage sites along the Ebro valley in this part of Aragón. When should you visit? The site sits on open, largely shadeless ground, so the cooler months — spring and autumn — make for the most comfortable visits, with milder temperatures than the height of summer in the Ebro valley. Dry conditions underfoot also make the climb up the hill easier after rain. Frequently Asked Questions Is Castillo de Pola well preserved? No — the site survives only as ruins, with sections of wall, an underground gallery leading to a cistern, and the foundations of former towers. Where does the castle's name come from? It comes from the nearby, now-vanished settlement of Pola, which once spread out at the foot of the hill. Are there other historic sites nearby? Yes — right next to the castle stand the ruins of two medieval churches, Santa Elena and Santa Inés, both linked to the former settlement. Is access to the ruins free and open? The ruins sit on open ground reached on foot from the hillside, though visitors should take care given the site's ruined condition.

El Castellar

Saragossa

El Castellar is the ruin of a medieval castle and a hermitage on the banks of the Ebro River, in Saragossa province, about 2 km from the village of Torres de Berrellén, in the Ribera Alta del Ebro area. It's one of the more unusual sites in the region — not because it's easy to visit, but precisely because getting there is restricted and tied to an old tradition. What will you see? On a hilltop across the river stand the remains of the old castle and settlement — walls built of tapial (rammed earth) and stone, along with a preserved gateway arch that once led into the fortress. The castle was raised in 1091 by King Sancho Ramírez as a forward outpost of the Kingdom of Aragon, aimed squarely at Muslim-held Zaragoza, meant to harass the city's garrison and pave the way for its eventual conquest. The site also carries a darker chapter of history. In 1111, King Alfonso I "the Battler" imprisoned his own wife, Queen Urraca of Castile, here following a bitter marital dispute. The so-called Cueva de doña Urraca (Doña Urraca's Cave), where her captivity is said to have taken place, is still preserved. On the other side of the hill stands the Ermita del Castellar, a hermitage housing the image of the Virgin of El Castellar. The current building is relatively recent — it replaced the old parish church of the vanished settlement, which collapsed around 1840 after the Ebro's current undercut its foundations. The image of the Virgin, lost when the church fell, was recovered from the river years later. How do you get there? From Torres de Berrellén, a track leads to a landing point on the Ebro about 2 km away. From there, visitors cross the river on a barge operated by the town council — and this is the key catch: the barge only runs on May 8th and on the last Sunday of September, the two feast days tied to the cult of the Virgin of El Castellar. Once across, a climbing path takes you up to the castle ruins in roughly 15–20 minutes. It's worth knowing that the whole area sits within the Spanish Army's "San Gregorio" training grounds, which is why free access outside those two dates simply isn't possible. When should you visit? The best time to come is May 8th, the feast day of the Virgin of El Castellar, or the last Sunday of September — the only occasions when the river crossing operates and visitors can reach both the hermitage and the castle ruins. Outside those dates, the site remains off-limits, though the Montes del Castellar hills are still visible from nearby trails along the Ebro. Frequently Asked Questions Can you visit El Castellar on any day? No. The site sits on military land, and the only way across the river — the town's barge — runs solely on May 8th and the last Sunday of September. Who built the castle at El Castellar? King Sancho Ramírez built it in 1091 as a military outpost of the Kingdom of Aragon directed against Muslim Zaragoza. What's the story behind Queen Urraca? In 1111, Alfonso I "the Battler" imprisoned his wife, Queen Urraca of Castile, here; the cave where she was reportedly held, known as the Cueva de doña Urraca, still survives. What does the hermitage hold? The Ermita del Castellar houses the image of the Virgin of El Castellar, venerated during the annual pilgrimages on May 8th and the last Sunday of September.

Castell del Far

Llinars del Vallès

Castell del Far is a ruined medieval castle crowning a hilltop in the municipality of Llinars del Vallès, in the Vallès Oriental region of Catalonia, north of Barcelona. What will you see? The remains sit on a hill and are compact in scale — the fortified core measured only about 20 by 30 metres — yet the site was once heavily defended, ringed by a circular moat and an outer defensive perimeter, with rectangular towers set within the walls. Its story stretches back to an Iberian watchtower, later reused by the Romans, and put to defensive use again in the Visigothic period against Germanic incursions. The fortifications were reinforced once more under Carolingian rule as raids swept the region in the 10th century. Written records of the castle date from 1025, and over the following centuries it passed through several hands — the Far lineage, then the Centelles and Cabrera families, and finally the barons of Corbera, who added a chapel here around 1336. The castle's fate was sealed by an earthquake on the night of 24–25 May 1448, with its epicentre right at Llinars. The structure collapsed and was never rebuilt; its owners chose instead to raise a new residence, Castellnou, elsewhere in the municipality. The site has since been partially excavated but remains abandoned and overgrown. Even so, the surviving stretches of wall and the moat let visitors trace the old layout of the stronghold and appreciate why this hilltop was chosen for defence in the first place. How do you get there? The ruins lie along the trail leading toward the Corredor Sanctuary (Santuari del Corredor), and the route is signposted and marked on digital maps. Entry is free and unrestricted, making the castle an easy short-walk destination for anyone based in Llinars del Vallès or exploring the Vallès Oriental countryside. When should you visit? Since the castle is an exposed hilltop ruin with no shade structures, cooler hours or seasons work best — spring, autumn, or early mornings in summer — for a more comfortable walk and exploration of the grounds. The site receives no regular upkeep, so sturdy footwear is worth packing, especially after rain, when vegetation and uneven ground can slow you down. Frequently Asked Questions Is there an entrance fee? No, access to the ruins is free year-round. Why is the castle in ruins? An earthquake on the night of 24–25 May 1448 brought the structure down, and its owners at the time chose to build a new residence elsewhere rather than rebuild the original castle. Are there visitor facilities on site? No, the site is undeveloped and overgrown — it suits visitors who enjoy exploring raw historical ruins rather than a museum-style monument. What can you combine the visit with? The trail passing the castle continues toward the Corredor Sanctuary, so the historical stop can easily be paired with a longer hike through the hills of Vallès Oriental.

Castillo del Ocaive

Pedreguer

Castillo del Ocaive is a medieval fortress crowning a rocky outcrop above Pedreguer, a charming town in the Alicante province on the Costa Blanca. The ruins sit atop the Ocaive rock within the Muntanya Gran range, which stretches between the Gorgos river and the town itself, and they command one of the finest panoramic views in the area. What is the history behind the castle? Human activity on this rock dates back to the Bronze Age: archaeologists have found a metallurgical furnace together with a casting mold used to produce arrowheads, dated to roughly 1000 BC. The fortification itself, however, is much younger. It originated during the Andalusian period (12th–13th centuries), when it served as a control point over the scattered farming settlements of the surrounding region. The castle as it survives today was built by the Ruiz de Corella family between 1271 and 1284. It functioned as an administrative center for the outlying farmsteads and was linked to nearby Dénia, the region's historic capital at the time. Restoration work wrapped up in 2025, partly funded through European FEDER funds, uncovering a clearer picture of the castle's internal layout and stabilizing the walls against further decay. The surviving remains hold the status of Cultural Heritage Asset (Bien de Interés Cultural). What will you see on site? At the summit stands a rectangular tower that originally rose at least one storey higher, reinforced with a sloped buttress on the cliff side. The entrance faced south, opening into another room with a slightly trapezoidal floor plan — the springing of the lowered vault that once covered it is still visible today. A little further down, on the eastern side, a large rectangular cistern from the Andalusian period survives, evidence of a sophisticated water-management system. Beyond the tower itself, the route reveals the remains of a courtyard, an eastern wing, and a guardhouse. From the viewing point, the panorama stretches across the Llosa valley and the territory the fortress once oversaw, extending toward the outskirts of Dénia. How do you get there? The starting point is the town of Pedreguer, from where you drive to Cova de les Miqueles, the trailhead for the hiking path that climbs to the summit. The full circular route — known as the "route of the castle of l'Ocaive and the medieval farmhouses" — covers roughly 10 km and takes about 3 hours to complete. It is rated medium-low difficulty, making it accessible to hikers with average fitness, though sturdy trekking shoes, plenty of water, and sun protection are recommended, since most of the ascent offers little shade. When is the best time to visit? Spring (March–May) and autumn (October–November) are the best seasons for the hike, when Costa Blanca temperatures are mild and visibility from the summit is at its best. Summer heat can make the exposed climb considerably harder, so an early morning start is advisable if visiting in July or August. Frequently asked questions How long does it take to reach the Castillo del Ocaive? The full circular route from Pedreguer covers about 10 km and takes roughly 3 hours, depending on your pace and how many stops you make to enjoy the views. Is the hike difficult? The trail is rated medium-low — no climbing equipment is needed, but the uneven terrain and lack of shade make good trekking shoes and enough water essential. What else can you see besides the tower? Alongside the main tower, visitors can spot the remains of a courtyard, the Andalusian-era cistern, an eastern wing, and a guardhouse, with the viewpoint overlooking the Llosa valley. Is the castle open to the public today? Yes, the ruins are accessible on foot via the trail from Pedreguer; restoration work completed in 2025 improved both the preservation and the readability of the site for visitors.

Castle of Chodes

Chodes

Castle of Chodes (Castillo de Chodes) is a medieval fortress perched above the Jalón river valley, in the municipality of Chodes, Zaragoza province, Aragon. Where exactly is the castle? The ruins sit on a rocky spur known as Peña de Iodos, right at the edge of a gorge carved by the Jalón, close to the present-day village of Chodes in the Valdejalón comarca. The village itself lies roughly 66 km from Zaragoza, at about 470 metres above sea level, covers just 16 km², and has fewer than 150 residents. How old is the castle? The earliest written record of the fortress appears in the charter of the Community of Calatayud, granted by King Alfonso I in 1131. The structure itself was raised in the 12th century on the site of an earlier settlement, taking full advantage of the rocky outcrop's natural defenses. Who controlled it over the centuries? Ownership passed through several noble hands, including Jimeno de Urrea and Lope Ferrench de Luna. From the 15th century it belonged to the Martínez de Luna family, and before that it sat within the domain of the counts of Luna until 1430, when the county reverted to the crown. What survives on site today? What remains is a stretch of rammed-earth-and-stone wall clinging to the cliff edge above the Jalón, along with the ruins of a square tower. The overall layout is oval, shaped to fit the terrain — roughly 30 metres along its longer axis and 15 along the shorter one — built in dressed ashlar stone. The site is now protected as an archaeological zone, so visits mean walking the ruins and taking in the valley views rather than a formal museum experience. Why was the castle abandoned? In the 17th century the population left the hilltop settlement for the flat land below, founding the new village of Chodes. Architect Juan de Marca designed its centerpiece: an unusual twelve-sided plaza — today's Plaza de España — whose original geometry survives almost intact. It's one of the few fully planned noble settlements from Spain's early modern period, and it makes for a striking companion visit alongside the castle ruins themselves. What else is worth seeing nearby? The Jalón valley around Chodes is known for scenic river meanders and sheer rock walls rising up to 100 metres, which draw rock climbers from across the region. Between the castle ruins, the planned plaza in the new village, and the wild river landscape, Chodes makes for a rewarding day trip through the Valdejalón comarca. How do you get there? Chodes sits on local roads linking the Jalón valley with Zaragoza, roughly an hour's drive from the city. A car is the most practical option, since public transport in this part of the comarca is limited. A path leads uphill from the village to the castle ruins on the rocky spur. When is the best time to visit? Spring and early autumn offer the most comfortable conditions for walking among the ruins and along the cliffs above the Jalón, with milder temperatures than the peak of summer. In summer, aim for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. Frequently asked questions Can you actually walk around the Castle of Chodes? Yes — the site is protected as an archaeological zone and open for self-guided visits, though tourist infrastructure is minimal. Is there parking near the castle? The easiest option is to leave your car in the village of Chodes and continue on foot along the path up to the ruins. What else should I see in Chodes itself? Don't miss the twelve-sided Plaza de España, a unique example of a planned 17th-century settlement. Is the area good for climbing? Yes, the vertical rock walls of the Jalón valley near Chodes reach up to 100 metres and are popular with climbers.

Castillo de Villeta o de Cuevas

Castillo de Locubín

Castillo de Villeta, also called Castillo de Cuevas or Castillo de las Águilas, is a medieval hilltop fortress overlooking the town of Castillo de Locubín in the province of Jaén, Andalusia. Its weathered ruins sit on a rocky outcrop and tell the story of a long-contested frontier between the Christian and Muslim kingdoms of medieval Spain. Where does the castle's name come from? Both the town and the fortress take their name from the Arabic Hisn al-Uqbin, which has been translated either as "castle of the caves" (giving rise to "de Cuevas") or "castle of the eagles" (giving rise to "de las Águilas"). Both versions survive in local tradition and historical writing, and the landscape around the ruins is indeed marked by natural caves and steep rocky cliffs where birds of prey still nest. What is the history behind the fortress? Long before the Muslim conquest, the site was home to an Ibero-Roman settlement. Between the late 9th and early 10th centuries, the area was caught up in the Muladí revolts, and the local lord of Locubín sided with Abd al-Rahman III, placing the territory under the influence of nearby Priego de Córdoba. By the 12th century, control had passed to Alcalá la Real. Christian forces first took the castle in 1213, when Alfonso IX of León captured it, only for it to fall back into Muslim hands soon after. It was not until 1238 that Ferdinand III of Castile conquered it decisively, through the Master of the Order of Calatrava, Martín Ruiz, folding the territory into the Encomienda of Martos in 1240 — though even then, lasting control proved elusive. The turning point came in 1341, during Alfonso XI's campaign against the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada. After a grueling siege led by the Infante Don Enrique, the castle finally surrendered to the Crown of Castile for good. As a reward for its role in the Reconquista, the king granted the surrounding lands to the nearby city of Alcalá la Real, under whose jurisdiction the castle would remain for centuries. What can visitors see today? Castillo de Villeta is a rock-built fortress laid out on a roughly circular plan. Only part of the outer walls of its alcázar have survived, most visibly on the northeastern side of the hill. The fortress's cylindrical tower of homage, once its most commanding feature, no longer stands — it was destroyed by a violent storm in 1593. Despite the heavy erosion of time, the site remains a striking vantage point over the valley and the surrounding hills of the Sierra Sur de Jaén. Walking through the ruins gives a clear sense of why this position mattered strategically for centuries, guarding routes that connected Córdoba, Granada, and the wider Jaén region. How do you get there and when should you visit? The castle sits on a hill directly above the town of Castillo de Locubín, reachable by local roads from Alcalá la Real or Martos. Reaching the summit involves a short but steep walk, so comfortable footwear is recommended. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit, when temperatures in the province of Jaén are milder than during the intense summer heat. Frequently asked questions Is the castle open to the public and free to visit? Yes, the ruins sit on open, unrestricted terrain and can be explored independently at any time, free of charge. How long does a visit take? Walking the ruins, including the climb up the hill, typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes depending on pace. Are there other sights worth combining with a visit? Yes — the town of Castillo de Locubín has a charming historic center, and the wider Sierra Sur de Jaén area offers hiking trails and other landmarks tied to the Reconquista period. Why is it sometimes called "the castle of the eagles"? The name reflects both the Arabic origin of the fortress's original name and the birds of prey that have long nested on the surrounding cliffs.

Castle of Alcocer

Ateca

Alcocer is an archaeological site a few kilometres from Ateca, in the province of Zaragoza, Aragón. The ruins sit in an area known as La Mora Encantada, between Ateca and neighbouring Terrer, on top of a small hill sheltered by a distinctive clay cliff. What is Alcocer and why does it matter? Alcocer is the remains of an Andalusi settlement from the Taifa period, the 11th century. Excavations carried out since 2004 confirmed that a Muslim settlement once stood on this hill, protected by a watchtower built of rammed earth (tapial). Archaeologists have uncovered traces of dwellings, defensive walls, pottery and food remains dating to the Taifa era. The stratigraphy shows the settlement was destroyed by a violent fire at the end of the 11th century and was never reoccupied afterwards. What does Alcocer have to do with the Cantar de Mío Cid? Researchers identify Alcocer as the fortress described in the Cantar de Mío Cid, one of the cornerstones of medieval Spanish literature. The exiled Cid's capture of Alcocer, during his campaign toward Valencia, occupies several hundred verses of the poem. Successive excavation campaigns led by the Diputación de Zaragoza have added evidence supporting this identification, though historians still debate how closely the literary account matches events from a thousand years ago. What will you actually see on site? The site is dominated by the remains of a large earthen tower, around which archaeologists have exposed fragments of houses and wall lines. It is in a state of ongoing ruin — this is not a rebuilt castle but a genuine, partly excavated open-air archaeological site. The clay cliff that gives the area its name, La Mora Encantada ("the enchanted Moorish woman"), is visible from a distance and serves as a natural landmark along the route. The tower itself was built on a rocky spur as a lookout point, and from its base you get a wide view over the Jalón valley and the surrounding hills. How do you get to Alcocer from Ateca? A waymarked hiking trail, SL-Z2, known as the Ruta de Alcocer, starts in Ateca and leads to the site. The route covers a few kilometres through the countryside between Ateca and Terrer, mostly over undemanding but occasionally uneven ground. Bring water and sturdy footwear, since there is no tourist infrastructure, catering or drinking-water points at the site itself. When is the best time to visit? Spring and autumn are the best seasons, when temperatures in the Jalón river valley are milder and the trail isn't fully exposed to summer heat. In summer, an early start is worth it, since the terrain is open and offers almost no shade. The site is accessible year-round, weather permitting. Frequently asked questions Is Alcocer a castle you can visit like a typical historic monument? Not in the usual sense. It's an open-air archaeological site with exposed foundations of a tower and dwellings, without reconstruction or museum facilities. Is this really the Alcocer from the Cantar de Mío Cid? Excavations since 2004 have produced evidence supporting that identification, but researchers haven't reached full consensus — the question remains an open scholarly debate. How long does the walk from Ateca take? The SL-Z2 trail starts in central Ateca; the round trip usually takes a few hours, depending on pace and stops along the way. Are there other sights worth combining with the visit? Yes — the full SL-Z2 loop runs through the scenic Manubles and Jalón valleys, and Ateca itself has a historic old town, making it easy to pair the hike with a visit to the town.

Castillo de Marbella

Marbella

Castillo de Marbella, in the heart of Marbella's old town on Spain's Costa del Sol, is the ruined medieval fortress that once guarded this stretch of Andalusian coastline. What is its history? The oldest section of the fortress dates back to the reign of the Umayyad caliph Abd al-Rahman III, built as part of the campaign against the rebellion led by Ibn Hafsun. The stronghold gave Cordoban forces a foothold on the coast from which to counter the rebel leader's activity. Builders reused stone from an earlier Roman structure — possibly the ancient settlement of Salduba — a fact confirmed by the large dressed blocks forming the lower courses of the walls and by three Ionic capitals embedded in walls along what is now Calle Trinidad. In the centuries that followed, the castle became a key defensive outpost for the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada. It held out until 11 June 1485, when it surrendered to the Christian forces of Ferdinand the Catholic during the Reconquista. Following the capture of Marbella, the fortress was remodeled to accommodate artillery. Under the Catholic Monarchs, the space occupied by the towers and castle chambers was converted into a cemetery, a use that continued until 1872 — a chapter that helps explain the partially ruined state visible today. What will you see? Surviving today are sections of the defensive walls and tower remains, woven into the fabric of Marbella's old town. Close inspection of the stonework reveals traces of several historical layers, from Roman foundation blocks to Ionic capitals, underscoring how many eras left their mark on this site. The walls once enclosed the old town and remain among the most visible reminders of the city's Islamic and medieval past. How do you get there? The castle stands in Marbella's historic center, within walking distance of the old town's main streets, making it an easy stop for anyone exploring the area on foot. Marbella itself sits on the Costa del Sol in Málaga province, well connected to other towns along the coast. When should you visit? Thanks to Marbella's Mediterranean coastal climate, the old town and the castle remains are pleasant to explore across most of the year. Since the site is outdoors, weather and time of day are worth factoring into your visit. Frequently Asked Questions What is the Castillo de Marbella? It's the ruined medieval fortress — also known as the Castillo de la Madera — standing in the center of Marbella's old town. When was the castle built? Its earliest structure dates to the reign of the caliph Abd al-Rahman III, connected to the suppression of the Ibn Hafsun rebellion. What role did the castle play historically? It served as a defensive stronghold for the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada until it surrendered to the forces of Ferdinand the Catholic on 11 June 1485. Is the site legally protected? Yes, it is protected under a 1949 heritage decree and Spain's 1985 Historical Heritage Law.

Torre de los Moros

Ribagorza

Torre de los Moros sits on the edge of Lascuarre, a small village in the Ribagorza district of Huesca province, in the foothills of the Aragonese Pyrenees. The stone defensive tower rises above the valley of the Isábena river and has long been one of the most recognisable landmarks on Lascuarre's skyline. What will you see? The tower has a rectangular footprint of roughly 7 by 6 metres and reaches close to 10 metres in height. It originally had four storeys, three of which survive today. One corner still preserves the remains of three corbels that once supported a projecting defensive gallery, used to cover the base of the walls below. The entrance, set under a lintel, faces south and is reinforced with dressed ashlar stone. Although its name points to a Muslim origin, historians date the tower's actual construction to the late medieval period, with work also attributed to the 16th century. Local tradition nonetheless links the site to the era when the nearby castle of Lascuarre, recorded in old sources as Laguarres, ranked alongside the castle of Castigaleu among the most advanced Muslim frontier posts facing the county of Ribagorza during the 10th and 11th centuries. The tower's role was that of a watchpoint, keeping watch over the approach from the Isábena valley and the Sierra de Laguarres toward Lascuarre and Castigaleu. Close to the tower, artificial openings cut into the rock are known locally as the "Moorish washhouse" (llavadero des Moros), another feature that popular tradition ties to the site's Muslim-era associations. The open setting around the tower gives wide views over the Isábena valley, making the spot as rewarding for its scenery as for its history. How do you get there? Torre de los Moros stands at the edge of Lascuarre, beside what was once the old road toward the village of Arén. The tower is reached on foot from the village centre, making it an easy short walk for anyone visiting Lascuarre and the surrounding Ribagorza district. When should you visit? Given the mountainous, Pyrenean setting of the region, spring and autumn are the most rewarding seasons, with comfortable temperatures for walking and the Ribagorza valleys at their most scenic. Because the tower stands in an exposed, open location, a clear day is worth choosing to make the most of the views over the Isábena valley. Frequently Asked Questions Was Torre de los Moros actually built by the Moors? The name reflects the region's Muslim-era past, but historians date the tower's construction to the late medieval period, with some work attributed to the 16th century. Popular tradition instead connects the site to the time when the nearby castle of Lascuarre was one of the most advanced Muslim outposts facing the county of Ribagorza. What architectural features have survived? Three of the original four storeys still stand. One corner retains the remains of three corbels that once held up a projecting defensive gallery, and the south-facing entrance is reinforced with dressed ashlar stone. Is there anything else worth seeing near the tower? Nearby, artificial openings cut into the rock are known as the "Moorish washhouse," another feature linked by local tradition to the site's Muslim-era past. Does the tower offer views over the surrounding area? Yes, its position on the edge of Lascuarre provides wide views over the Isábena river valley and the Sierra de Laguarres beyond.

Castell de la Granadella

Xàbia / Jávea

Castell de la Granadella is an 18th-century coastal battery perched above the Cala de la Granadella cove in Xàbia (Jávea), on the Costa Blanca coast in the province of Alicante. Is it actually a castle? Despite its name, Castell de la Granadella was never a fortified residence — it is a small coastal defence battery built around 1739 as part of the chain of fortifications protecting the shoreline of the former Kingdom of Valencia. The structure follows a horseshoe-shaped floor plan covering roughly 140 square metres. It was manned by only a handful of soldiers operating cannons mounted along the walls, whose job was to watch the sea and warn nearby settlements of any threat approaching from the coast. The site has been listed as a Site of Cultural Interest (Bien de Interés Cultural) since 1996 and remains the only publicly owned defensive structure still standing along the Xàbia coastline. Today the battery is in a fragile state — its walls are partly ruined, and historians believe the structure was damaged during the Napoleonic Wars in the early 19th century. Even so, the horseshoe outline and the battery's commanding position on the cliff edge still leave an impression on visitors. Where is it and how do you get there? The fortification stands on Morro del Castell, the rocky headland that closes off the southern end of Cala de la Granadella, in the southernmost stretch of the Xàbia municipality. The lookout sits roughly 40 metres above sea level, surrounded by the limestone cliffs typical of this section of coast. Several walking trails lead to the battery, ranging from a short route of around 1.6 km to a longer coastal loop of about 5.6 km, and an even longer circuit of nearly 13.4 km linking further viewpoints along the Xàbia shoreline. The paths cross typical Mediterranean scrubland with views over the cove's turquoise waters along the way. What will you see there? The main draw is the view itself — from the battery's walls, the panorama takes in Cala de la Granadella, the surrounding cliffs, and the open sea beyond. It is one of the most striking viewpoints on Xàbia's southern coastline, popular with hikers and landscape photographers alike. The ruins themselves are modest in size, but the horseshoe layout of the old defensive structure is still clearly readable, giving a sense of its original watch-post function. When is the best time to visit? The Costa Blanca enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate year-round, but spring and autumn are the best seasons for hiking out to Castell de la Granadella, when temperatures are comfortable and the exposed trails are easier going. In summer, strong sun and a lack of shade along the route can make the walk demanding, so it's worth setting out early in the morning. Frequently Asked Questions Is Castell de la Granadella a real castle? No — despite the name, it is a small 18th-century coastal battery built to watch the sea and defend the shoreline, not a fortified residence. How do you reach the battery? The site is accessible only on foot, via trails starting near Cala de la Granadella; the shortest route is about 1.6 km. Is there an entrance fee? The site sits in open terrain reached via Xàbia's public hiking trails. Why is the battery in ruins? It is believed to have suffered damage during military action in the early 19th century, around the time of the Napoleonic Wars, and has remained unrestored since.

Casa forta de Miravet

Casa Forta de Miravet is a ruined medieval fortified house in the municipality of Castell de Mur, in the Pallars Jussà region of Lleida province, in inland Catalonia. What exactly is this site? "Casa forta" is Catalan for a fortified manor house — essentially a small, purpose-built defensive structure rather than a residence. It stands on a hilltop above 950 metres, facing the larger Castell de Mur across the valley. Its floor plan echoes that of Castell de Mur on a much smaller scale, which points to both buildings belonging to the same defensive network guarding the western approaches to Mur. It's worth separating this site from a far more famous namesake: Casa Forta de Miravet has nothing to do with the Templar Castle of Miravet, the well-known fortress on the Ebro river in Tarragona province. The two are unrelated buildings more than a hundred kilometres apart. How do you get there? Access starts from the C-13 road linking Tremp and Pobla de Segur. Shortly before reaching Castell de Mur, an unpaved forest track branches off and climbs toward the ruins. The final stretch is steep and rough, so most visitors park earlier and continue on foot. The site is free to visit year-round and has no ticket office or visitor facilities on location. What will you see on site? Only part of the structure survives. The walls were built from roughly worked stone bonded with lime mortar. The eastern face is straight, while the northern and southern walls curve, giving the building a rounded outline. The best-preserved section is the rounded western point, which still stands about 6 metres high — the only part that clearly shows the tower's original shape. The rest of the walls are largely collapsed or rebuilt. What do we actually know about its history? No written historical record documents the construction or early use of Casa Forta de Miravet. What is certain is that the site once lay within the historic jurisdictional territory of Mur. Based on construction technique and the shape of its corners, historians date the building to the 12th or 13th century. After losing its military role, the structure was later reused as a farmhouse before being abandoned to ruin. When is the best time to visit? Because the approach is a mountain track without a paved surface, spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons, offering mild temperatures for the walk and a drier, firmer track. In summer, an early start helps visitors avoid the heat on the exposed final climb. Frequently Asked Questions Is this the same castle as the famous Miravet on the Ebro? No. Casa Forta de Miravet in Pallars Jussà is a separate, much smaller structure than the Templar castle of Miravet in Tarragona province. Can you drive all the way to the site? The final section is an unpaved mountain track, steep and rough in places — many visitors leave their car earlier and walk the last stretch. Is there an entrance fee? No, the site is freely accessible year-round, with no ticket booth or staff on location. What else can I visit nearby? Castell de Mur stands right next to it, together with the Romanesque collegiate church of Santa Maria de Mur, and Castell de Guàrdia lies a short distance away — the three are often visited together on the same walking route.

Castle of Planes

Planes

The Castle of Pianisi stands near Sant'Elia a Pianisi, a small town in the province of Campobasso, in the Molise region of Italy. The ruins crown a hilltop roughly 3.7 km northwest of the village, overlooking the rolling Fortore countryside, and offer visitors a quiet mix of medieval history, ongoing archaeology, and wide-open views. What will you see? The castle first appears in written records from the second half of the 13th century, though the site's origins reach back further to a Longobard-era fortified settlement (castro) established here. A church once stood within the castle grounds large enough to hold more than 400 worshippers; its surviving architectural elements have been dated to the 12th–13th centuries. Between the 13th and 14th centuries, the nave walls and bell tower were reinforced with additional masonry, traces of which are still visible in the exposed foundations today. The fortress was destroyed in 1528, though the precise circumstances of its fall remain unrecorded. Afterward, the surrounding population resettled in what is now the village, and the name "a Pianisi" attached to the town commemorates the place its inhabitants had left behind. Building material salvaged from the ruins was later reused in nearby farmhouses and rural structures. Archaeological work at the site continues, and the hilltop itself has become a favourite spot for taking in sweeping views, particularly at sunset. How do you get there? Sant'Elia a Pianisi sits about 20 km northeast of Campobasso, the regional capital of Molise, within the Fortore river valley. The easiest way to reach the town is by car from Campobasso or the surrounding towns of the province. The village itself has a small, compact historic centre, from which a short drive or walk leads up toward the hill and the castle ruins. What else is worth seeing nearby? In the village, look for the parish church dedicated to the prophet Elijah and the Capuchin convent, founded between the 17th and 18th centuries and remembered for a visit by Padre Pio. Inside, a wooden altar from 1714 survives alongside paintings attributed to the 18th-century artist Paolo Gamba. A few kilometres from the centre stands the Abbey of San Pietro, a stone building from the 12th century with a single nave and a wooden truss ceiling. The area also holds the Bosco Casale Regional Nature Reserve, an ancient oak forest home to more than 110 recorded bird species, with marked trails, informational panels, and a visitor centre. Nearby, the artificial Lake Occhito draws birdwatchers and anglers to its scenic shoreline, and the flat terrain of the Fortore Valley makes for pleasant walking and cycling, including stretches of old sheep tracks and mountain-bike routes. When should you visit? Molise has a Mediterranean climate with mild, rainy winters and warm, dry summers. Spring and early autumn are the most comfortable seasons for exploring the castle ruins and the surrounding countryside, when temperatures are moderate and the Fortore Valley is at its greenest. Frequently Asked Questions Can visitors walk up to the castle ruins on their own? Yes, the hilltop site is open to visitors and is a popular viewpoint, although parts of the area remain active archaeological excavations. How far is Lake Occhito from the castle? Lake Occhito lies a short distance from Sant'Elia a Pianisi, within the same Fortore Valley, close to the Bosco Casale Nature Reserve. What connects the castle to the Capuchin convent? Both sites lie within the same municipality and form part of a single visit — the castle represents the town's medieval past, while the convent reflects its later history and its association with Padre Pio. Why was the castle abandoned? The fortress was destroyed in 1528, but historians have not established the exact circumstances of its destruction. Afterward, the local population resettled in what became the present-day village of Sant'Elia a Pianisi.

Castillo palacio de Marcilla

Marcilla

Castillo palacio de Marcilla is a Gothic fortress standing at the heart of the town of Marcilla in Navarre, now home to the local town hall. Who built the castle, and when? Construction was commissioned in the 15th century by Mosén Pierres de Peralta, a high-ranking official of the Navarrese court. King Charles III of Navarre also supported the project, contributing building materials and a thousand strong pounds (libras fuertes) toward the works. The result was a square-plan Gothic fortress, a layout typical of noble residential castles in Navarre during that period. What does the castle look like architecturally? The building is defined by four corner towers and a central keep, the tower of homage. The lower sections of the walls are built of stone, while the upper floors were added later in brick — the contrast between the two materials is still visible on the facades today. A moat once encircled the whole structure; parts of it remain and can still be seen. Who owned the castle, and how did it end up in public hands? For more than 400 years the residence belonged to the Marquises of Falces, one of the region's prominent noble families. In 1976 the castle was sold to the Government of Navarre for roughly 5 million pesetas. Since then it has remained public property, and between 2008 and 2012 it underwent a thorough restoration that brought the building to its current condition. What historical event is linked to the castle? The best-known episode in the castle's history is the defense of 1516. Ana de Velasco led the resistance that kept the fortress from being demolished, after Cardinal Cisneros had ordered its destruction. Her role is still remembered today as a symbol of local history and resolve. Did the castle once hold any famous relics? Yes — until 1848 the castle housed the Tizona, the legendary sword attributed to El Cid Campeador. After leaving Marcilla, the sword eventually entered the collection of the Museum of Burgos, where it can still be seen today. What is the castle used for now? Following its restoration, the building now serves as the seat of municipal government, housing the offices of Marcilla's town hall. It holds the status of a Bien de Interés Cultural, Spain's heritage-property designation, formally registered on 25 June 1985 — recognition of its historical and architectural value to the region. Frequently asked questions Where is Castillo palacio de Marcilla located? The castle stands in Marcilla, in the southern part of Navarre, Spain. Who commissioned the castle's construction? It was built in the 15th century by Mosén Pierres de Peralta, with material and financial support from King Charles III of Navarre. Can visitors tour the castle? The building currently functions as the town hall and houses local government offices, which is worth checking before planning a visit, since access to the interior depends on municipal use. What relics are connected to the castle's history? Until 1848 the castle held the Tizona, the sword attributed to El Cid; it is now displayed at the Museum of Burgos.

Corral Antón Castle

Millares

Corral Antón Castle (Spanish: Castillo de Corral Antón) is a ruined medieval fortress standing above the town of Millares in the province of Valencia, in the Canal de Navarrés region. It is the highest of the town's three historic defensive points and a rewarding stop for anyone interested in military architecture or hillside walking in eastern Spain. Where is Corral Antón Castle located? The fortress sits on a hilltop directly behind the built-up area of Millares, close to the Júcar river valley. From this vantage point the surrounding countryside is visible for a considerable distance, which explains why a watch post was built here in the first place — the height made it possible to monitor movement along the valley and pass warnings to lower-lying posts. The site's approximate coordinates are 39.2362, -0.777208, and it is reached on foot via a path starting from the centre of Millares. What role did it play in Millares' defensive network? Corral Antón never stood alone. Together with a smaller fortification known as the castellet and a tower called Torre de Coves, it formed a triple defensive system for the town, a layout typical of territorial organisation during the Islamic period in this part of Spain. Because of its dominant position on the terrain, Corral Antón functioned mainly as a lookout post, backing up a lower, smaller stronghold known as Castillo de Abajo (or Castillito) by giving it earlier warning of any approaching threat. What is the history behind the castle? Researchers believe the earliest foundations may predate Roman times, although the structure as it survives today is associated chiefly with the Islamic era, when Millares was a significant settlement. After King James I of Aragon conquered the area in 1267, the town's Muslim community did not disappear — Moriscos (Muslims living under Christian rule) continued to live in Millares until their forced expulsion in 1609. Notably, Millares was one of the more active centres of resistance during the Morisco revolt, underlining how strategically important the local fortifications remained even centuries after the Reconquista. What remains of the castle today? Little of the original structure has survived. What can still be seen is a fragment of what was probably the fortress's single major tower, together with a stretch of defensive wall on the steepest part of the hillside. The rest of the building has been lost over the centuries, worn away partly by erosion and partly through the reuse of its stone by local residents. Does the castle have any legal protection status? Yes. The Castillo de Corral Antón is registered as a Bien de Interés Cultural (Spain's top-tier heritage protection category) under ministerial reference R-I-51-0010790, entered into the register on 3 June 2002. Frequently Asked Questions Can visitors actually walk up to Corral Antón Castle? Yes, the site is reachable on foot via a path from Millares, though given how little of the structure remains, it is best approached as a scenic walk rather than a visit to an intact monument. How old is the castle? There is no firm construction date — the earliest foundations may date from before the Roman era, but the recognisable structure is linked mainly to the Islamic period, before the Christian conquest of 1267. How does Corral Antón differ from Castillo de Abajo in Millares? Corral Antón is the higher, watch-post fortification, while Castillo de Abajo (Castillito) sat lower down as a smaller, separate stronghold that Corral Antón helped protect by spotting threats early. Is it worth combining a visit with other sights in Millares? Yes — the remains of the town's other defensive elements are nearby, making it possible to trace the whole history of Millares' fortifications in a single outing.

Castell de Port

Barcelona

Castell de Port is a medieval ruin on the southwest slope of Montjuïc hill in Barcelona, and today there is barely anything left to see. What exactly is Castell de Port? This is not the same site as the famous Castell de Montjuïc, the large star-shaped fortress on top of the hill known for its panoramic views and history exhibits. Castell de Port sat lower down, on a promontory facing the sea and the Llobregat river delta, near the area of the old Roman-era port. The earliest written record of the site dates to 1020, when the nobleman Mir Geribert bought the land and set up his second residence there. Unlike a classic fortress, Castell de Port was never primarily a military structure. It was a cluster of buildings — used for housing and storage — likely including a watchtower, and it stood close to a sagrera, the protected area around a church that carried a right of asylum. Its main purpose was overseeing farmland and controlling the network of roads linking Barcelona with the towns of the Llobregat delta. What role did it play in Barcelona's history? The site was active from the 11th century through the second half of the 15th century, and during that time it also served as a temporary residence for notable figures: the counts Ramon Berenguer II, nicknamed "Cap d'Estopa," and Berenguer Ramon II, known as "the Fratricide," both stayed here. Over time its strategic importance faded as the nearby Torre del Farell took over that role. The Reapers' War (Guerra dels Segadors) in the 17th century marked a turning point that accelerated the castle's decline. What remains of it today? Very little. As late as around 1910, some remnants of the tower were still standing, but 20th-century industrial development in the Can Tunis area and the construction of railway lines led to the near-total disappearance of the structure. What is left today is a mound of stones and a commemorative plaque, near the present-day Carrer dels Ferrocarrils Catalans — enough to mark the spot but not much more. Is it worth visiting? This is a site for people curious about medieval Barcelona and interested in tracking down lesser-known corners of the city, not a stop with built-up tourist infrastructure. There is no ticketed exhibition or museum trail here — just a trace in the landscape and a plaque explaining the site's former role in defending and administering the lands around Montjuïc. It makes sense to combine a visit with exploring Montjuïc hill itself, where the better-known attractions are located, including the aforementioned Castell de Montjuïc. Frequently asked questions Is Castell de Port the same as Castell de Montjuïc? No. Castell de Montjuïc is the large, well-preserved fortress at the top of the hill and a popular tourist attraction. Castell de Port is a much older medieval ruin lower down, on the southwest slope, of which mainly a mound of stones survives today. When was Castell de Port built? The earliest written mention dates to 1020, though the site functioned as an important part of the region's defensive and administrative network from the 11th century until the second half of the 15th century. Why did the castle disappear? Strategic importance shifted to the nearby Torre del Farell, and the Reapers' War in the 17th century sped up its decline. The final blow came from 20th-century industrial development in Can Tunis and the building of railway lines, after which only a mound of stones remained. What can visitors see there today? A commemorative plaque and a small mound of stones — that is the only visible trace. There is no tourist infrastructure or ticketed entrance at the site.

Castell de Torres Torres

Torres Torres

Castell de Torres Torres is a ruined medieval fortress standing above the town of Torres Torres, in the Camp de Morvedre district of Valencia province. What remains today is a weathered stone skeleton, but its story stretches back to a time when this stretch of eastern Spain was contested ground between Muslim and Christian rule. Where does the castle stand, and why this spot? The fortress crowns a hill directly above the village, in a position that commands the route linking Valencia with the interior of the region. That location was no accident: medieval builders always favored high ground with clear sightlines over the roads used by merchants, travelers, and armies. Torres Torres sat squarely on such a route, making a fortified lookout an obvious necessity rather than a mere show of local power. How did the fortress begin? The site's origins trace back to the Islamic period, likely the 12th century. A watchtower went up first, later enclosed by a defensive perimeter, with the specific job of monitoring the road between Valencia and Teruel — a corridor of real commercial and military weight for the whole region. What changed after the Christian conquest? The turning point came when King James I of Aragon took the area during the Reconquista and folded it into the Crown of Aragon. The castle, along with surrounding lands, was granted to the knight Beltrán de Bellpuig, turning it into part of a defensive network guarding the landward entrance to the Kingdom of Valencia. The fortress stayed in active use until the early 17th century — more than four centuries of continuous military service. What did the castle look like at its peak? The original layout was polygonal, its perimeter marked by four towers linked by curtain walls. At the center stood the keep, the last line of defense and likely the residence of the garrison's commander. This combination — a walled circuit reinforced by towers plus a strengthened central keep — was standard for border fortresses of this era across the Iberian Peninsula. What survives today? Two of the original towers remain standing, along with part of the rectangular, three-story keep. Sections of the perimeter walls are still visible, as are traces of auxiliary structures that once housed the garrison and sheltered nearby villagers in times of danger. The site underwent significant alterations in the 19th century during the Carlist Wars, when it was pressed back into defensive use. Today the castle sits in a state of ongoing decay, which gives it a raw, unrestored character rarely found in more heavily renovated Spanish castles. Why is it worth the climb? Most visitors come for the view: the hilltop opens onto the valley and the surrounding hills of Camp de Morvedre, and the quiet, uncrowded setting makes it easy to linger. It's also a rare chance to see what border fortifications from the Christian-Muslim frontier actually looked like before restoration smoothed over their rough edges — this one never got that treatment. Frequently Asked Questions When was the castle in Torres Torres built? Its origins go back to the Islamic period, probably the 12th century, when a watchtower was first built to control the road toward Teruel. Who took over the castle after the Reconquista? King James I of Aragon captured it and granted it, together with surrounding lands, to the knight Beltrán de Bellpuig. What remains of the original structure? Two of the four original towers survive, along with part of the three-story keep and sections of the walls and auxiliary buildings. Was the castle still used in later centuries? Yes — it served defensive purposes until the early 17th century, and it was pressed back into military use in the 19th century during the Carlist Wars.

Castillo de San Luis

Estepona

Castillo de San Luis is a small defensive fortress standing right in the heart of Estepona's old town, in the province of Málaga. Today it functions mainly as a compact museum space, but for centuries it served as the town's first line of defense against attacks from the sea. Where did the castle come from? Fortifications on this spot date back to an earlier, Islamic-era defensive structure that once stood on the coast. The fortress in its present form was built in the last quarter of the 16th century, when the Spanish crown reorganized the defenses of the western Málaga coastline following the Morisco uprising of 1568. It was attached to the southern stretch of the older Islamic walls, positioned to control the natural anchorage of La Rada beach — a landing spot that made the town especially exposed to raids from the water. What did the fortress look like at its peak? Its main features were three artillery bastions, two of them fitted with casemates, plus a large, partly arcaded parade ground surrounded by barracks. This layout let the garrison watch both the approach by land and the traffic offshore at the same time. During the 18th century the fortress was repurposed as a cannon battery, adapting it to the changing tactics of coastal defense. What has survived to the present day? The castle did not escape damage. The 1755 Lisbon earthquake seriously weakened its structure, and in 1810, during the Peninsular War, French troops blew up parts of its walls. Over the following decades, private houses were built directly against the remaining walls, and the fortress gradually disappeared from view behind the town's rooftops. What survives today are sections of the tower and a stretch of the south wall. What can visitors see there now? After years of conservation and restoration work, the castle reopened to the public as an exhibition space dedicated to Estepona's history. Inside, displays walk visitors through the town's past, while the exposed wall and tower fragments themselves stand as physical evidence of the site's defensive role. Castillo de San Luis sits between Calle Villa and Calle Castillo, just steps from Estepona's Archaeological Museum, the clock tower, and the town hall — making the area a natural starting point for exploring the historic center on foot. Why is it worth a visit? The site layers several chapters of history together — medieval fortifications, early-modern military architecture, and a present-day cultural function. For anyone walking Estepona's old town, it's a natural stop that ties local history to the rest of the historic center. Frequently asked questions When was Castillo de San Luis built? The fortress in its current form dates to the last quarter of the 16th century, though defensive structures existed on the site earlier, during the Islamic period. What can you see inside the castle today? The surviving tower and south wall sections house an exhibition space on Estepona's history, open to visitors. Why was the castle partly destroyed? It was damaged by the 1755 Lisbon earthquake, and French troops caused further destruction in 1810 during the Peninsular War. Where exactly is the castle located? In Estepona's historic center, between Calle Villa and Calle Castillo, close to the Archaeological Museum and the town hall.

Castell de Tarabau

la Baronia de Rialb

Castell de Tarabau is a set of medieval castle ruins in the municipality of la Baronia de Rialb, in the Noguera comarca (Lleida province, Catalonia). Where exactly is the castle located? The stronghold sits atop a hill that forms a rocky platform on a mountain ridge between the Rialb river and the Cerdanyès stream. The position is no accident: from up here the whole northern stretch of the Rialb valley lies in view, which in the Middle Ages meant control over movement through the area. The municipality of la Baronia de Rialb, which now administers the site, has its town hall in the village of Gualter. How do we know the castle is this old? The earliest surviving written record naming the site dates to the year 892. It describes a sale in which a man named Koigo sold a vineyard and a wine press to a couple, Sunila and Ligília, on land described as being "in castro Tarabaldi" — within the castle's district. The fortified structure itself is documented from the 11th century onward. The territory attached to the castle covered the Rialb river's headwaters, referred to in period documents as the "vall de Tarabau" (Tarabau valley). Who were the lords of the castle? The Tarabau lineage, which gave its name to both the castle and the surrounding valley, held real weight in the politics of the County of Urgell during the 11th and 12th centuries. One member, Borrell de Tarabau, appears alongside Guillem de Meià as a guarantor — effectively a hostage securing the deal — in a pact between Count Ermengol II of Urgell and Berenguer Ramon I of Barcelona over the castles of Alòs, Montmagastre, Malagastre and Artesa. In his will of 1167, Count Ermengol VII of Urgell bequeathed the castle to his son Ermengol VIII — proof that supreme lordship had passed to the counts of Urgell, with the Tarabau family holding it as vassals. Over time the district was absorbed into the barony of Rialb, the origin of the municipality's current name. What role did the castle play in defending the valley? Castell de Tarabau never stood alone. Together with the castles of Rialb and Salinoves, it formed a network of outposts protecting and controlling the Rialb river valley throughout the medieval period, letting local lords watch over travel routes and shield nearby settlements from raids. What is left to see today? Visitors should set expectations accordingly: very little survives. At the top of the rock rising toward the northern edge of the hill's upper plateau there most likely stood a small, rectangular castle building. Today its western wall can still be made out, though with difficulty — a stretch roughly 4 metres long and only about 30 centimetres high, resting on the bedrock. The remains are modest, but their value lies less in scale and more in the age of the first written mention and the castle's role in the region's defensive network. Is it worth the trip? Castell de Tarabau appeals to visitors interested in the medieval history of the County of Urgell and to active-tourism hikers — the site is listed among the active tourism routes promoted by the municipality of la Baronia de Rialb. Given how little of the fortification stands, the walk itself and the view over the Rialb valley are as much the draw as the historical stonework. Frequently asked questions Where is Castell de Tarabau located? On a hill between the Rialb river and the Cerdanyès stream, in the municipality of la Baronia de Rialb, Noguera comarca, Lleida province. How old is the castle? First mentioned in a document from 892; the fortified structure itself is documented since the 11th century. Who owned the castle? The Tarabau family for generations; from the 12th century the counts of Urgell held supreme lordship, and in 1167 Ermengol VII bequeathed it to his son Ermengol VIII. What remains of the castle today? Very little — mainly a fragment of the western wall of the former small castle building, about 4 metres long, set on the rock at the hilltop. Can you get practical visiting information locally? Yes, from the town hall of la Baronia de Rialb, based in Gualter.