Top 15 Castles to visit in Spain

Top 15 Castles to visit in Spain

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Top 15 Castles to visit in Spain

Centuries of turmoil have endowed Spain with innumerable fortresses to see, some awe-inspiring and oppressive while others are extravagant and palatial. Every culture, from the Phoenicians to the Visigoths, felt the need to protect itself and build powerful hilltop forts. You could say that the art of castle-building was perfected by the Moors after they crossed the Strait of Gibraltar in the 8th century to occupy much of Spain for 500 years. Let’s take a look at the top 15 castles to visit in Spain.

1. Coca Castle

Coca Castle is unique among Spanish castles: It has only three sides since it is built into a hillside that provides a defence from invaders who attack from the rear. Coca Castle also is unique because its architecture was influenced by the Moors though it was built by Christians in the mid-15th century. Much of the castle’s interior was destroyed in the last century, but the exterior still retains Moorish touches, such as the turrets. Coca Castle is doable as a day trip from Segovia; the castle is open to the public though only by guided tours.

2. Belmonte Castle, Cuenca, Castilla-La Mancha

Against a backdrop of wheat fields and blue skies, this pretty palace is almost unchanged since its construction in the fifteenth century by the Marquis of Villena, despite being left abandoned until the nineteenth century when it was restored to full splendour by the Empress Eugenia de Montijo. In 2014 the castle was brought back to life when it hosted the International Medieval Combat Federation Championships. It’s a great place to take your own little prince or princess for a day of fairytale fun.

3. Castillo de Gibralfaro, Malaga

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The city of Málaga’s official flag depicts this castle, known as Castillo de Gibralfaro. Built in the tenth century by the Caliph of Córdoba, and expanded by the Sultan of Granada, the fortress also once housed King Ferdinand. AS you approach, you’ll see ramparts rising from the surrounding woods. This distinguishing feature, along with a few interior buildings and a large courtyard, is well preserved. Take a stroll along the ramparts on the outer wall and you’ll catch a view of the interior of the bullfighting ring next door.

4. Bellver Castle

Travellers who want to visit Bellver Castle must first get themselves to Majorca, an island off the coast of Spain. The castle is unique among not only those in Spain but in the rest of Europe because it is circular in shape. Not only in the wall around the castle circular but so are the towers and the castle itself. King James II of Majorca built the castle in the 14th century. It later was used as a military prison for political prisoners and today houses a historical museum. Surrounded by forests, the castle today hosts various cultural events such as concerts and is the symbol of the city of Palma.

5. Castillo de Santa Barbara, Alicante

Climb 166 meters (544 ft) above sea level to Castillo de Santa Barbara for panoramic views of Alicante bay. Originally constructed in the late 9th century, the castle features a series of fortress walls atop Mount Benacantil and is home to the city’s historical museum. Explore archaeological remains of the Bronze Age found in the city or take a guided castle tour to see areas normally closed to the public, such as the cisterns and dungeon. Ride the elevator from the bottom of the mountain to the castle, and then enjoy a leisurely walk back to the city centre after your visit.

6. Alhambra, Granada

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Once the last Islamic stronghold in Europe, Alhambra reflects the splendour of the Moorish civilization in Spain and offers visitors a chance to see the exquisite ornamental architecture, lush gardens, cascading water features, and panoramic views of Granada. This complex was once a palace, citadel, fortress, and the home of the Nasrid sultans, high government officials and servants of the court. Within the medieval complex of structures, you can also explore other prominent buildings belonging to different time periods, including the Palace of Carlos V, noted for housing a museum of fine art.

7. Montjuic Castle, Barcelona

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The views of Barcelona from Montjuic Castle are expansive. You’ll see all the city’s neighbourhoods spread beneath your feet. A beacon of history positioned at the top of Montjuïc, the castle was once a military fortress but now acts as a municipal facility. Enjoy the gardens on the castle grounds. A visit to Montjuic Castle represents just the start of the adventure when you visit here.

8. Alcazar of Segovia, Segovia

A fortress that was part of the inspiration for Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle, Alcazar of Segovia is one of Spain’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, once home to the Spanish royal family. The first thing you’ll notice about the castle is its characteristic shape, designed to resemble the bow of a ship. Although this design may have been intended to showcase Spain’s military might, it also served an aesthetic purpose. In 1862, the original interior was damaged in a fire, but many of the rooms are restored. Don’t miss the Hall of Kings, where you’ll find a mural depicting Spanish royalty through Juana la Loca.

9. Castell de Eivissa, Ibiza Town

Head up to Castell de Eivissa for an up-close look at some impressive architecture, history, and commanding views over the town and harbour. The UNESCO World Heritage Site fortification looks much like it did when it was constructed in the 12th century. Today, though, restaurants, art galleries, and craft shops can be found among the gates and bastions of the castle walls. Take time to view statues, castle defences, and archaeological ruins. Be sure to visit the 14th-century Gothic cathedral at the top.

10. Nasrid Palaces, Granada

Wander through the courtyards, halls, and corridors of Nasrid Palaces, the dwelling of the kings of Granada, and discover its secret spots. Dating back to the 14th century, the palatial complex was built near the Great Mosque and boasted three independent areas: one housing administration, the other serving as the king’s official residence, and the last the private royal quarters, where the harem was located–notice how the artwork and decoration differs according to their functions.

11. Palacio Real de Olite, Olite

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The Palace of the Kings of Navarre of Olite or Royal Palace of Olite is a castle-palace in the town of Olite, in Navarre, Spain. It was one of the seats of the Court of the Kingdom of Navarre, since the reign of Charles III “the Noble” until its conquest by Castile (1512). Surely there is no king with a more beautiful castle or palace and with so many gilded rooms it could not say or even could imagine how magnificent and sumptuous this palace is. This monument was quite damaged (except the church) in 1813 by a fire caused by general Espoz y Mina during the Napoleonic French Invasion with the aim of that was not occupied by French troops. It was largely restored from 1937 in works that lasted for 30 years giving it back its original appearance. Nevertheless, miscellaneous architectural decoration of its interior, and the outside gardens, were lost.

12. Palacio de Mondragon, Ronda

Built in 1314, Palacio de Mondragon was erected for royalty and is filled with Mudejar features and decor. During your visit, you will see Mudejar ceilings, doors, windows, ceramic tile, pillars, mosaics, balconies, and more. The garden overlooking the gorge is a highlight of the site. There are also exhibits throughout the building about the history of the town and its surroundings. English translations are provided but are sometimes cryptic, so consider researching the attraction before you go.

13. Peniscola Castle, Peniscola

Immerse yourself in the history of Peniscola Castle, a 14th-century castle built on the remains of a Moorish citadel. Study information displays and artefacts to learn about the castle’s past, such as its period as the residence of the Avignon pope in the 15th century. Located at the highest point in the city, the castle offers stunning views of Peñiscola and the coast. However, this does mean that there is a steep walk up.

14. Alcazar de Los Reyes Cristianos

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This Medieval fortress, otherwise known as the  Alcázar of Córdoba, was where the Catholic Monarchs Fernando and Isabel first met with Christopher Columbus to discuss his first trip to America. Today the interior has displays of Roman mosaics but the real gem is the exterior of terraced gardens with ponds, fountains, orange trees, topiary, and flowers.

15. Palacio De La Magdalena, Santander

A former seasonal residence of the Spanish royal family, Palacio de La Magdalena contains numerous fine paintings by Spanish painters and offers vistas out onto the sea from the top of the Magdalena Peninsula. The best way to see the 20th-century palace is on a tour. The reception rooms in particular impress, and note the curiously designed student dormitories–which were originally stables–built in a medieval English style. Take a moment to greet the penguins and seals in the small marine enclosure near the entrance.