Medieval belmonte castle in spain. The most beautiful castles and fortresses in Spain
For a long time it was torn into 2 parts - the Christian north and the Muslim south. In such conditions, the builders of castles did not care about their beauty and compliance with the rules of architectural styles, but about how long the stronghold could withstand. Today in Spain are preserved ancient castles, 10 of which definitely deserve your attention.
It is located in the province of Murcia, on a high hill near the city of Lorca. The castle is a fortress with a powerful defensive wall. Its construction took place from the 9th to the 15th centuries. For a long time lorca castle was one of the key defensive points in the war against the Arab invaders who founded the Emirate of Granada. Today it houses a museum open sky, representing the history of the Reconquista. Various historical festivals are held on the territory of the fortress.
Unique spanish castle has only 3 sides as it is built into the hillside which provided additional protection against invaders in the 15th century. Coca also unique in its architecture, influenced by Moorish culture. Unfortunately, the interiors of the castle have been lost. The castle can be visited during day trip from Segovia. It is open to the public, but only offers guided tours.
The castle, towering on a hill 45 km from Valladolid, was built in the 13th century by King Alfonso III. Several times he changed his owners, moving from one clan to another. Then the castle fell into disrepair. Unique interiors have been lost. However, we can still admire the richly decorated architecture of the castle. At one time, a prison was located here, in which Hernando Pizarro, the conqueror of Peru, and Cesare Borgia managed to sit.
Unique in its form, the castle, which is a building in the shape of a ring, is located in the city of Palma in Mallorca. The castle was built by King James II in the 14th century. It was later used to hold political prisoners. Today within its walls is located historical Museum, cultural events and musical evenings are held here.
It is located in the province of Madrid and was built in the 15th century on the site of a ruined fortress. The main material for it was granite. From the 16th century to 1914, the castle stood without an owner and was badly damaged. Today it has been restored and functions as a museum.
This is one of the largest fortresses built by Muslims on Spanish soil. Alcazaba is located near the city of Almeria, in the south of the country. For those who see the fortress for the first time, it may seem familiar, as it was here that the films "Conan the Barbarian" and "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" were filmed.
It stands on a hill above the city of the same name, 56 km from Valladolid. It is often compared to a ship for its unusual shape. The 30-meter donjon rises above the battlements, stretched along. The fortress was built between the 9th and 15th centuries. Today, these walls house a wine museum and tours of the fortress.
Thanks to its rich and eventful history, Spain has been and remains a country of castles and fortresses.
Starting from the early Middle Ages, when the Holy Reconquista began, local rulers were forced to build fortresses and defensive structures to protect the lands conquered from Muslims. Later, in the era of feudal strife and fragmentation, they had to defend themselves from their neighbors. Yes, and the eternal struggle for royal power kindled many wars in the land of Spain. What can we say about the attacks of envious neighbors, throughout history, enviously looking at the fertile and fertile lands of Iberia.
Thus, century after century, the magnificent architectural heritage of the great Spanish Empire was formed. Plus, the First and Second World Wars, at the behest of the top, bypassed Spain, thanks to which the kingdom managed to preserve its heritage, most of which is now under the protection of UNESCO.
Thanks to this, the Kingdom of Spain is literally strewn with medieval Castles and fortresses. According to experts, in the old days in Spain, the number of castles and fortresses reached 10,000. Today, there are more than 2,500, of which 500 are in excellent condition.
Portal "Other Spain" presents you its rating of the TOP 10 "The most beautiful Castles and Fortresses in Spain", which we certainly recommend you to visit during your trip to Spain!
Coca Castle - Castillo de Coca, Segovia, Castile and Leon
Close your eyes and imagine for a moment fairytale castle with towers and turrets, high walls with battlements and a defensive moat infested with crocodiles.
And now open your eyes and admire the Coca Castle, standing on the Voltaya River, which is rightfully one of the most spectacular castles in Spain! And there are many reasons for this!
Its construction began in the 5th century and absorbed all the best from the architecture of the Middle Ages. This is the best example of Spanish Gothic and Mudéjar style. The castle is under state protection as a National Monument and has an impressive defensive system.
Your attention will definitely be attracted by the majestic tower towering over the castle and the beautiful Gothic ribbed vault, decorated with mosaics.
Currently, the castle is managed by the family of the House of the Dukes of Alba, and already in 2054 it will come under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Agriculture of Spain.
Butron Castle, Basque Country
Traveling through the Urdaibai Nature Reserve in the Basque Country, among the thickets of the fabulous Basque forest, you will come across a very unusual for these places, Butron Castle.
This is a real miracle medieval architecture, the beginning of construction of which dates back to the 11th century! The castle acquired a lot of new buildings during the reconstruction of the 14th century, and the final appearance was completed in the 19th century. Its fantasy design of towers and turrets, passages, arches, battlements and all decorative elements is reminiscent of Bavarian castles. The house has several bedrooms, a chapel, a large living room of 200 square meters, a typical courtyard, a library and dungeons.
For many years it has been used as a re-enactment of knightly battles in medieval shows for tourists. And now it's up for sale.
Castle of the Knights Templar in Ponferrada - Castillo templario de Ponferrada, Castile and Leon
The Templar castle in Ponferrada seemed to have descended from the screens of knightly films. It is located in El Bierzo, on a hill at the confluence of the Sil and Boesa rivers.
The origin of this castle dates back to the ancient Celtic Kastro, built on a hilltop in the pre-Roman era. But it was the Templars, who owned the castle until the 14th century, who glorified this place.
The castle in Ponferrada is a magnificent structure, the result of centuries of changes and expansions. Be sure to visit the armory yard and the remains of the embrasure that has been preserved around the main entrance with two towers.
Unfortunately, in the nineteenth and early twentieth century, the castle suffered a lot when its premises were used as quarries. During this period, some walls were demolished to build a football field. In 1923, the castle was recognized as a National Monument and later restoration work began.
Loarre Castle - Castillo de Loarre, Huesca, Aragon
The ancient Kingdom of Aragon for many tourists traveling in Spain is associated with medieval fortresses and locks. And in fact, Aragon has something to surprise its guests with!
The silhouette of the Loarre Castle looms even from afar. The castle is located on top of a limestone cliff surrounded by deciduous forest, which gives it a special charm and drama…
The Abbey Loarre castle was built in the Romanesque style. It amazes tourists with its beauty, majesty and history! This castle of Aragon was founded in the 11th century and is still preserved in excellent condition. Its atmosphere is so impressive and envelops you that it seems that the monks still live in it according to their ancient canons.
Perhaps that is why Loarre Castle was chosen as the protagonist of the movie "Kingdom of Heaven" directed by Ridley Scott.
The ancient fortress is surrounded by a 172-meter wall around the perimeter. Barely having overcome the gates of the castle, you will be enchanted by the church of St. Peter, decorated with capitals. And in order to fully feel the spirit of Ancient Aragon, the period of knightly tournaments, be sure to climb the Castle tower and admire the expanses of Huesca!
Fortress of Segovia - Alcázar de Segovia, Segovia, Castile and Leon
The fortress of Segovia is one of the most significant and symbolic in Spain. She absorbed her history of various eras and the fate of many royal people. The fortress of Segovia can be called the scene of all the major historical events in Spain.
Archaeological excavations indicate that the first fortress on this site was erected during the time of the Roman Empire. Well, the first mention of the castle, which we can now visit, dates back to the beginning of the XII century. Since then, the Fortress of Segovia has become a permanent springboard for all historical events that have changed the history of Spain.
Over the centuries, the fortress was restored and expanded several times and its modern look gave the castle to King Philip II. Since that period it has been one of the most luxurious castles medieval Spain. Today the fortress of Segovia is a Historical and Artistic Monument of Spain.
Olite Castle - Castillo de Olite, Olite, Navarre
The full name of the castle is "Royal Palace of the Kings of Navarre in Olite". Olite Castle was built between the 13th and 14th centuries as main residence king of Navarre. Today it is the most beautiful palace-fortress completely preserved, restored and open to tourists in the Kingdom of Navarre.
The castle has preserved interior halls, keeping the secrets and legends of its medieval inhabitants, characteristic towers, courtyards, passages and many other interesting buildings.
A very interesting element adjoins the castle, attracting the eyes of curious tourists. This is an egg-shaped building that served as a refrigerator in the Middle Ages, where the ice did not melt even in summer.
During the heyday of the Kingdom of Navarre (13th-14th centuries), the Olite Castle was the most beautiful and luxurious castle in Europe. It had as many rooms as there were days in a year.
In the 20th century the castle was reconstructed. In its old part, the Parador hotel is now located and everyone can spend a few days in the royal chambers. A new part The fortress-castle is open to visitors, where you can wander through the royal labyrinths and immerse yourself in the history of court intrigues…
Peñafiel Castle - Castillo de Peñafiel, Valladolid, Castile and León
Have you ever seen a fortress shaped like a ship? If not, then visit the castle-fortress in the town of Peñafiel near Valladolid in the heart of Spain's Ribera de Duero wine region. castle from white stone, towering majestically on the mountain, was listed as a National Monument of Spain in 1917.
Peñafiel Castle was built in the 10th century by order of King Ramiro II of Leon. But modern look given to him by Infante Don Juan Manuel. The dimensions of the base of the castle are 35 meters wide and 210 meters long. And it has a bizarre, elongated shape along the top of the ridge.
Peñafiel Castle is a real miracle of medieval architecture. The main gem this Spanish fortress is a watchtower. In one of the halls, the Wine Museum is open, which will be a great addition to the route through the wineries of Ribero de Duero and the Castles and Fortresses of Spain.
Castle de la Mota - Castillo de la Mota, Valladolid, Castile and Leon
Another witness to the main historical milestones of Spain is the Castle-fortress de la Mota in the town of Medina de Campo. Its observation decks offer a panoramic view, allowing you to control the surroundings.
An impressive red brick wall, typical of the area, surrounds the castle. Already in 1904, the castle was included in the list of the Cultural Heritage of Spain and is protected by the state.
This fortress has a complex and rich story. She survived many wars that left scars on her walls, which today tell us about the heroic history of Spain. The towers of the fortress served as a prison for such historical figures as Cesar Borgia, who escaped from it by descending from the tower on a rope.
Today, the Castle de la Mota is open to the public, which we recommend that you definitely visit during your trip to the Castles and fortresses of Spain. Be sure to check out its fabulous armory courtyard, a chapel built using Mudéjar and Romanesque styles. Is waiting for you an amusing trip in the past of Spain!
Castle of Manzanares el Real, Madrid
Manzanares el Real Castle in the vicinity of Madrid was built in the fifteenth century in the city of Manzanares el Real and is the best preserved castle in Spain and the autonomy of Madrid.
The construction of this castle in the heart of Spain began in 1475 on the site of an old Romanesque chapel on lands rich in forests and pastures. At the end of the Reconquista, these lands were subject to frequent disputes. That is why the construction of a new, powerful fortress, on the site of the old one, which had fallen into ruins, came in handy here!
Currently, the Castle of Manzanares el Real houses the Museum of Castles of Spain. It houses one of the most interesting collections of medieval tapestries.
We hope that you are already excited to visit the most beautiful Castles and Fortresses in Spain?! Then contact us and join our travels!
In most cases, the castles of Spain were not designed for beauty, but for the sake of protecting their own lands. They are powerful and sometimes frightening structures. Sometimes royalty lived in them, sometimes prisoners were kept in them, but most often the military was located here.
Today, the castles of Spain are a special attraction of the country, through which you can get acquainted with the medieval power of Castile.
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1. Lorca Castle
Located in the province of Murcia, Lorca Castle was designed as a defensive fortress. And very well designed, given that he never fell under the power of the attackers. The castle was built on the site of the Muslim citadel, on a high hill. Today Lorca is important cultural center, known as the "Fortress of the Sun". A wide variety of events are organized here, most often musical ones.
2. Coca Castle
This fortification is unique. It has only three walls, and the fourth side is protected by a natural barrier - an impenetrable hill. The castle was built in the 15th century by Christians, but influenced by Moorish architecture. Coca is open to the public and can be visited on a day trip around Segovia, with organized groups.
3. La Motta Castle
This reconstructed fortification has its roots in the 11th century. For a long time, the kings of Castile and Aragon contested dominion over it in order to rule over the Medina del Campo region, and in the 15th century the castle finally became Castilian. At one time it was a prison where such legendary figures as Hernando Pizarro and Cesare Borgia were kept.
4. Bellver Castle
Tourists who want to experience Bellver Castle must reach Mallorca, off the coast of Spain. Its walls, main building and towers have a round shape unusual for such huge structures. For a long time Belver was used as a political prison, and now it houses a history museum. The castle, surrounded by forests, hosts numerous activities and is considered a symbol of the city of Palma de Mallorca.
5. Manzanares el Real Castle
This well-preserved castle, located near Madrid, is also known as the castle of De los Mendoza, because for a long time it was the residence of this family. Built entirely of granite, the fortification is a good example of Spanish military architecture and today houses an interesting museum.
6. Alcazaba de Almería Castle
Located in the south of Spain, the fortification occupies a vast area with houses and shops. Built by Muslims in the 10th century and later converted by Christians, the castle is famous as the filming location for the films Conan the Barbarian and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
7. Peñafiel Castle
The castle is located in the province of Valladolid and resembles a ship with tall 30-meter towers. It was erected between the 9th and 15th centuries and today contains unique museum guilt. Peñafiel is especially impressive at night when it is fully lit.
8. Olith Castle
Also known as Palacio Real de Olit, the castle provides an opportunity to get acquainted with another Spanish culture - Navarre, in the north of the country. It was built on Roman ancient ruins using various architectural styles, with towers, courtyards, gardens.
9. Alcazar de Segovia Castle
Unlike other Spanish castles, Alcazar de Segovia impresses with its beauty and sophistication. Numerous princesses lived here, including Isabella the First, who became Queen of Spain in 1474. Currently, you can visit a museum here, where paintings and a rich military arsenal are exhibited.
10 Alhambra Castle
Tourists who have time to visit only one castle in Spain should choose the Alhambra fortification in Granada. Nothing compares to this ancient fortress, which is also called the Red Castle. The Moorish architecture of the castle is charming, especially since it has been superbly preserved. Getting here is not so easy, you have to book tickets in advance.
From Caceres to Girona via Valladolid and Leon. Scattered throughout Spain are legendary castles that have survived over the centuries. Perhaps in order to take us to the world of fairy tales, knightly tournaments, endless battles and sieges, the world of noble kings, brave caballeros and beautiful ladies. We have selected some of the most beautiful castles in Spain open to the public that will take you back to the real Middle Ages.
Loarre Castle (Huesca)
In 1020, the king of Navarre, Sancho the Great, founded this fortress, whose monastery church, dedicated to St. Peter (San Pedro), is considered the pearl of Romanesque architecture. Its excellent preservation contributed to the appearance of the fortress in many Hollywood films. Everything in this castle - halls, chambers, royal towers and the inner (arms) courtyard - retains the flavor of the Middle Ages.
Alcazar of Segovia
Currently, the castle houses a museum. But throughout its history, it performed various functions: it was a fortress, royal palace, a prison, an artillery center and a military academy. Alcazar in Segovia is considered one of the most important palace castles in Spain. It is built in the form of a giant ship, the bow of which seems to cut the waves, leaving behind the provincial capital - the city of Segovia. In the Middle Ages, the alcazar was one of the favorite residences of the kings of Castile, especially Alfonso X, due to its proximity to the hunting grounds.
Belmonte Castle (Cuenca)
This magnificent castle, dating from the 15th century, has a triangular-shaped courtyard, which is extremely rare and only Scottish castles. Open to the public since 2010, its halls tell the history of the fortress, including its extensive film career. It was here that Sophia Loren and Charlton Heston reincarnated as Dona Jimena and Rodrigo Diaz de Vivara from the blockbuster El Cid.
Castle in Tossa de Mar (Girona)
The castle, located in a fortification that served as a defense against Mediterranean pirates, is a unique example of a medieval fortification on the coast of Catalonia. The structure of its walls, crowned with seven towers, its internal structures, arched vaults and numerous passages in the fortress of Vila Velha, certainly deserve to climb to the very top.
Cardona Castle (Barcelona)
In the 11th century, the castle became the residence of the Dukes of Cardona, also known as "rich salt lords". The majesty of the gigantic structure is enhanced by its location on top of a hill dominating the area. Being within the walls of the castle, it is easy to feel like a part of that same legendary era when sieges and battles for power were widespread. The castle has now been converted into a national premium tourist hotel.
Bellver Castle (Mallorca)
The main feature of this castle, located just 3 kilometers from the city of Palma de Mallorca, is its rounded shape. Its courtyards and towers, which make up architectural ensemble fortresses also have a rounded shape, which is quite rare in European castle architecture. Currently, the fortress serves as a city museum, which is definitely worth a visit, as well as the wonderful Pine forest surrounding the castle.
Olite Castle (Navarre)
Conceived as a palace for the kings of Navarre, the castle experienced its heyday in the 15th century during the reign of Charles III the Noble. When you walk through its numerous halls, the imagination itself takes you to those epic times, when every room of the palace was filled with luxury and splendor. The outside of the castle is as beautiful as the inside, and its royal galleries are a must-see.
Castle in Coca (Segovia)
Built in the 15th century, this huge castle rises on one of the bends of the Voltoya River, which made it easier for its builders to construct a protective moat. Unlike most of the country's fortresses, a place on a hill was not chosen for its construction. The castle in Coca is considered one of the best examples of the Gothic-Mudéjar style in Spain, surprising visitors with every element. It is worth noting the magnificent courtyard and, of course, observation deck, which offers breathtaking views of the town of Coca and the surrounding pine forests.
Morella Castle (Castellón)
Morella Castle rises majestically above the homonymous locality from the thirteenth century. The Arabs were the first to settle in these places, and only then the Christians, so in the architecture of the fortress we can observe a mixture of different styles. At one time, the castle was considered one of the most important fortresses in the Mediterranean, dominating the area as far as the eye can see. Today, in addition to enjoying the picturesque interiors of the castle and natural landscapes, you can climb spiral staircase to the location of the church choir - the kliros, as well as to listen to the original organ, made at the beginning of the 18th century.
Castle of La Mota (Valladolid)
Located in Medina del Campo, this castle has gone through a long process of restoration. The main tower, which protects the entrance to the courtyard, has been preserved in excellent condition, although the past centuries have left deep marks from artillery shells on it. Also impressive is the defensive moat surrounding the perimeter of the castle.
Manzanares el Real Castle (Madrid)
This castle has well-preserved towers. Particularly good main tower, which offers an unforgettable view of the Santillana reservoir. Hidden behind its ramparts is a beautiful courtyard with porticos (covered galleries on columns) and a Gothic gallery, considered one of the marvels of Spanish military architecture.
Almodovar del Rio Castle (Cordoba)
The castle is of Muslim origin and dates back to 760, although it has been rebuilt and restored several times. At its foot is a village and the river Guadalquivir flows. The castle looks like fairy giant, guarding the peace of the area, and from the battlements of its fortress walls a unique panorama of the Cordoba plain, lost beyond the horizon, opens up.
Castle of Ponferrada (Leon)
The history of this building architectural monument is of particular interest. In 1178, the city of Ponferrada came under the protection of the Knights Templar, who decided to expand the fortress located on the top of the hill. We are told about the various stages of construction and expansion by coats of arms and heraldic signs placed on the walls and gates of the fortress.
Trujillo Castle (Caceres)
Situated on the hill of Cabeza de Zorro (Fox Head), this majestic fortress began to be built in the 9th century on the site of an ancient Arab citadel. Built entirely of durable granite, which abounds in these places, the fortress has a main gate guarded by two defensive towers, which are interconnected by a horseshoe-shaped arch, which is typical for Arabic architecture.
Peñafiel Castle (Valladolid)
The main function of the building was to protect the Duero line from the attacks of the Moors during the Reconquista. Its "ship" form is due to the terrain, since it is located on a narrow, elongated hill at the confluence of the Duero and Duraton rivers. It currently houses the Provincial Wine Museum, with exhibition halls, tasting rooms and wine cellars.
The centuries-old confrontation between two cultures and religions had a huge impact on architectural style castles in Spain. Today, most of these structures have become a legacy of Spanish history and a tourist "pilgrimage" site. majestic medieval castles And luxurious palaces attract travelers from all over the world.
Skyscanner and our portal bring to your attention the 15 most beautiful castles Spain. If you haven't visited the most amazing castles yet, it's time to choose the best one.
Coca Castle, Segovia, Castile and Leon
Close your eyes and imagine a fairy tale castle with turrets, loopholes, a moat and high walls. Open them and you will see the castle, which is one of the most spectacular buildings in Spain, a mixture of Spanish and Gothic-Moorish style of architecture of the 5th century, built at the bend of the Voltoya River. This National Historical Monument has an impressive defensive system, while also retaining a beautiful Gothic, ribbed vault with geometric mosaics in the armory. It lay in ruins until the turn of the century and is today a National Historic Landmark.
Butron Castle, Biscay, Basque Country
Butron Castle, although currently closed, is a marvel of medieval architecture, rebuilt in the nineteenth century. The Bavarian style in the form of fantasy towers, turrets, battlements and architectural decorations around the Butron tower can be described as rare in beauty. The fort is located in a privileged area with large natural resources and its walls reach a height of more than 4 meters. The castle has a chapel, a large living room of 200 square meters, a typical courtyard, a library and underground rooms. For many years the castle was used as a hotel with medieval shows, but today it is closed and put up for sale.
Castle of the Knights Templar in Ponferrada, León, Castile and León
The Templar castle in Ponferrada is another monument of eternity on a hill at the confluence of the Sil and Boeza rivers. Its origins date back to ancient Celtic history, but it was the Templars who gave this castle its name and fame. The Knights Templar ceased to exist in the fourteenth century, and the castle passed to the crown of León. This fortress is full beautiful places and is the result of centuries of change and expansion. Don't miss the walk along the parade ground and main entrance with two towers. Unfortunately, in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the appearance of the castle lost quite a lot after the decision to build it next to football stadium when some walls were torn down. In 1923, it was declared a national monument, thereby receiving state support for its restoration.
Castle Loarre, Huesca, Aragon
This grandiose castle, surrounded by a small forest, looms dramatic against the backdrop of the landscape. It was built in the eleventh century, but despite this is in excellent condition, film director Ridley Scott chose it for the filming of the film Kingdom of Heaven with Liam Neeson and Jeremy Irons. The fort is surrounded by a wall and its area is 172 meters in diameter. We recommend that you use the audio guide to feel that this place is alive full life, see how the gateway opens, admire the Romanesque style, fall in love with the capitals of the church of San Pedro, immerse yourself in the history of the prison and look around the surroundings from the tower.
Belmonte Castle, Cuenca, Castile-La Mancha
Surrounded by a wheat field and blue skies, Belmonte Castle is one of the most unique and best preserved forts on the peninsula. It stands on a hill near the city of the same name and is a national monument. Appearance preserved and almost the same as it was at the time of its construction by order of the first marquis of Villena in the fifteenth century. This imposing fortress with a palace, like most ancient castles, was abandoned for many centuries until the nineteenth century, when the Empress Eugenia de Montijo ordered that it be restored to its original splendor. Today this castle is inhabited, and you can visit the Medieval World Fighting Championship there. Do not leave without visiting the dungeons and cellars. If you have seen the films "Juan La Loca" (Juana the Mad) by Vicente Aranda or "Flesh" by Paul Verhoeven, then you know that these films were filmed in this castle.
Castillo de Almodovar del Rio, Cordoba, Andalusia
On top of a hill near the town of Almodóvar del Río, this fortress can be seen from a distance, and the closer you get to the walls, the more interesting it becomes. Its origins date back to the Moorish occupation in the eighth century. Once on the site of this castle there were the remains of a Roman fort, but in the Middle Ages it was expanded and reformed and after that it began to look like today. The Castillo de Almodóvar del Río is an amazing place, with towers, battlements and a courtyard. Fortunately, at the beginning of the 20th century, its owner (the Count of Torralva) saved it from ruin and restored it to its former splendor. Today the castle is one of the best preserved castles in Spain. You must not miss Interesting excursions, a theatrical night performance called "Black Moon".
Alcazar of Segovia, Segovia, Castile and Leon
It is said that Walt Disney was inspired by the Alcazar in Segovia, which resulted in Cinderella Castle. This monument has conical towers that dominate the landscape of the hill between two rivers and seems like a place from a fairy tale. It was built in 1122 on the site of a Spanish-Moorish castle and was inhabited by King Alfonso VIII. Over the centuries, it has been renovated and expanded more than once and received its current profile thanks to Philip II. Formerly one of the most magnificent castle-palaces of medieval Spain, it is now a historical artistic monument that tells its story through the halls of the towers.
Olite Castle, Navarre
The Royal Palace of the Kings of Navarre de Olite (that's his full name) is a fortress that was built between the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries as the seat of the Court of the Kingdom of Navarre. This palace is a fascinating collection of gardens, moats and outbuildings of nobles living in the shadows of legends and towers. Looking at this splendor, you begin to understand why this castle was once considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. It became a victim of time and fire during the War of Independence, which exacerbated the process of destruction. In 1937, they began to repair it and were able to restore its former splendor. Although many elements of the architecture have been lost, today you can spend the night within its walls at the Parador Hotel or stroll through the halls with the same charm as kings once walked.
Cardona Castle, Barcelona, Catalonia
At the center of one of the most important communities in Catalonia lies this medieval fortress. This huge mass of stone buildings tops the hill from which you can see the unique landscape. It was built in 886 in both Romanesque and gothic style, but rose to prominence in the fifteenth century, during the reign of the Dukes of Cardona, the most important family of the Crown of Aragon. Part of the building is the Parador Nacional, where you can visit the majestic Romanesque church of San Vicente and the Minyona towers built in the eleventh century.
Peñafiel Castle, Valladolid, Castile and Leon
Have you ever seen a boat-shaped castle? Well, if not, stop by the town of Peñafiel in Valladolid and see the stone fortress built on a long, narrow ridge. Received status national monument in 1917, the castle was built in the 10th century under King Ramiro II of Leon, and Infante Don Juan Manuel, who lived after him, left everything as it is, without changes. At 35 meters wide and 210 meters long, Peñafiel Castle is a marvel of medieval architecture. Its walls are beautifully executed and the watchtower is the jewel in the crown. One of the halls houses the Provincial Wine Museum, so everyone can use and enjoy the cuisine and heritage.
New Manzanares el Real Castle, Madrid
The new Castle of Manzanares el Real is also known as Mendoza, which was a palace for the nobility for centuries. This fifteenth-century fortified palace is located in the town of Manzanares el Real, next to the Santillana reservoir at the foot of the Sierra de Guadarrama. The castle was built on the site of a chapel and is a real gem. This rectangle with four towers, three circulars, battlements, and parapets is full of loopholes. Its arcaded courtyard is a delight, while the gallery's Gothic ground floor is one of the most beautiful galleries.
Castle of Velez Blanco, Almeria, Andalusia
Located high in Andalusia near the city of Velez Blanco, the castle was built on the ruins of an ancient Islamic citadel, located on the same hill on which the fortress now stands. It belonged to Pedro Fajardo y Chacón, the seat of the Catholic Monarchs. As a result of looting and neglect of the state of the castle, it suffered greatly in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. One of the elements of the castle, which is a masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance architecture, was subsequently sold to an American millionaire who took it to New York, where today this masterpiece can be seen in the MET Museum. Beautiful wooden friezes representing the "Twelve Labors of Heracles" and "Caesar's Triumph" were also sold and are now in the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris. However, a visit to this unique place visitors will not be disappointed.
Castle de la Mota, Valladolid, Castile and Leon
Castillo de la Mota in the city of Medina del Campo stands on a hill (hence the name) and the entire region is visible from its walls. The walls are built of traditional red brick. No wonder it was declared cultural heritage in 1904. Its history has been turbulent both within its walls and on high towers there is a story about how Cesare Borgia escaped from the fortress. He slid down the wall using the ropes. This fort has preserved traces of wars and conflicts that have left scars that can still be seen on its walls. You can visit the fairy tale courtyard or the Romanesque chapel. It will be a journey into the past.
Bellver Castle, Mallorca, Balearic Islands
Circle, with four towers of townhouses and breathtaking views of the city of Palma, the harbour, the Sierra de Tramontana and Pla de Mallorca. Bellver Castle lives up to its name (in the old Catalan language it means "beautiful view"). It is one of the few circular castles in Europe and the oldest of all, as it was built in the Gothic style in Mallorca in the early fourteenth century by James II. The castle is surrounded by the largest defensive moat, and in the courtyard of the castle you can relax in fabulous pavilions.
Alhambra, Granada, Andalusia
The Alhambra is both a castle and a rich palace and fortress. This complex is so spectacular that it would be blasphemy not to include it in the list of castles. Located in the upper part of Granada, it was the seat of the monarchy and court of the Nasrid Kingdom. Today the site is one of the summits of Andalusian art and one of the most visited monuments in Spain. The "Red Fortress" is a walled city where time seems to have stopped forever. Among the richly decorated halls, rooms, conference sources, a fabulous playground, gardens of Eden, you get the feeling that you are not on earth. The palace is a real jewel in the crown. When visiting this place, do not forget to climb the Generalife and enjoy the view of the beauty of Granada. How could it be otherwise, since the Alhambra is an object world heritage UNESCO.
We understand that from the huge number of fortresses and castles that are scattered throughout Spain, it is difficult to choose a place to travel. Of course, we missed some noteworthy castles. So leave us your comments and share your opinion about the most beautiful castle in the country.
