Home to far more than 2,500 castles, Spain’s ancestors were certainly kept busy over the last 12 centuries! If you take the time to delve into their history, interesting and
painful facts about these Castles and their previous inhabitants begin to unfold, inciting emotions that you can resonate with.
Alcazar Castle
It simply cannot be denied that Alcazar Castle is what fairytales and romance are made of. Located in Segovia, now a World Heritage Site, stands an alluring 13th century Castle in all its glory. It’s no wonder that Walt Disney was inspired by it. So much so, that it became their logo! Surrounded by two rivers, this enchanting castle is declared as one of the most beautiful castles in Spain, and perhaps in the world. Lose yourself in the magic, visioning the lives of its previous owners!
Almodovar Castle
Wind your way up to Almodovar and discover the secrets kept within the walls of this formidable castle. Built in the 8th century on high ground, and later restored in the 14th century it was originally a Roman fort. Almodovar Castle boasts nine impressive towers and evokes typical Moorish Berber style when it was once an Arab royal residence. Its popularity has increased since it has been frequently shot in the “Game of Thrones” series.
Bellver Castle
Occupying an idyllic spot on the island of Majorca, Bellver castle is artistically filled with intrinsic interior arches. Cleverly built for the purpose of defense, it proved to be extraordinarily successful in resisting sieges. Being the only circular Gothic stone castle in Spain its original towers show off their elegance designed by master masons The central building was constructed around a spectacular circular patio. Sadly, in 1717 it was converted into a prison, holding many tragic stories. This 14th-century royal fortress is still surrounded by fragrant pine woods, an interesting museum, and never-ending views over Palma Bay.
Photo of Castle of Coca, located in the Coca municipality
Coca Castle
Coca Castle dominates the skies in the Segovia region as an overwhelming palace, highlighting countless towers. Built in the 15th century, its sheer height of over 700 meters is impressive as is the Spanish Mudejar architecture. This gothic castle was artistically crafted and constructed with acute attention to detail. Its lavish interiors and intricate filigree reflect more decorative design than functional, as it was built to be elaborate! Constructed to protect the inhabitants from unwanted guests, is evident in the castle being partly tucked into sloping ground and bordered with a formidable deep moat. In all its splendor, the castle now serves as a training center for foresters.
Colomares Castle
Estaban Martin was responsible for building this amazing castle, as a tribute to Christopher Columbus. It is more a monument than a castle, where the history of the explorer and his travels are kept. Known as the birthplace of the queen of Portugal, Infanta Maria, this was where Christopher Columbus prepared his trip to America. The beauty of the palace is enhanced by magnificent gardens, showcasing rows of colorful flowers dotted with water fountains, enticing pleasurable walks through the gardens.
Loarre Castle
Deemed as the oldest Romanesque castle in Europe and standing against a rocky outcrop, this fairytale castle looms over 1,000 meters above sea level. Built between rocky outcrops on the foothills of the Pyrenees mountains, this magnificent castle dominates the Hoya de Huesca landscape. With its breathtaking views and wonderous architecture, Loarre castle became the perfect setting for Ridley Scott’s film ‘Kingdom of Heaven’. Intriguing legend has it that Florinda, also known as the ‘Maid of Loarre’, still haunts the interior after the Visigoth king Don Rodrigo lured her into the castle and raped her. The incident incurred the wrath of her father, Count Don Julian who then betrayed the Visigoth King, inciting a war. This sadly left the great castle abandoned at the dawn of the Renaissance, with its evocative history standing prominent at the top of the Sierra de Loarre
Mota Castle
Although this tragic gothic Castle was home to the Queen of Aragon in 1504, she was prevented from ruling. Juana was declared insane and mentally unstable. Later It was believed that her condition was primarily due to her forced confinement, as well as her husband’s infidelities. She became known as Juana la Loco (Joanna the Mad). True to legend, the castle depicts an eerie feeling of ‘Deja vu’, that many can relate to. Since then, this intriguing castle has lost its identity as it continues to play many roles, ranging from a royal residence to a prison, and now houses art exhibitions and events.
Penafiel Castle
Originally constructed in the 10th century, this medieval fortress was under the rule of Ramiro II. Due to his aggressive nature, he was better known as the “devil”, and the worst of the kings of Leon. Considered disconnected and unfinished, German gothic style of architecture was originally used. Built from rocks this narrow and elongated castle has only one door, with a dominant keep in the middle. It is strange to understand that this castle cannot be entered in a solo capacity. Getting to the top of the castle rewards you with amazing views over the lands. Penafiel Castle is unique in that it houses a wine museum, and the surrounding Ribera del Duero region is renowned for its wine.
Peniscola Castle
Renowned for being built by the mysterious Knights Templar during the 12th century, this delightful castle overlooks one of Spain’s lovely beach towns. Perched on a cliff face and at a height of 64 meters above sea level, mesmerizing views across the Mediterranean are to be enjoyed. Surrounded by solid walls of carved stone, within the castle grounds you will find gardens adorned with palm trees and teeming with birdlife. Peniscola was also one of Spain’s castles featured in the “Game of Thrones” series.