10 Best and Beautiful Castles in Spain castles were primarily constructed for practical purposes rather than aesthetic appeal, with only a few exceptions. These fortresses were built to be sturdy, imposing, and intimidating. Their main objective was to endure attacks from various adversaries, ranging from Moorish invaders to neighboring monarchs. While royalty occasionally resided in these castles temporarily, they predominantly served as confinement for political prisoners under the ruling authority. Exploring the castles in Spain provides valuable insight into the military power of the medieval era.
Bellver Castle
To reach Bellver Castle, travelers must first make their way to Majorca, an island located off the coast of Spain. This castle is truly one-of-a-kind, not only in Spain but throughout all of Europe, due to its circular shape. The walls, towers, and even the castle itself are all circular in design. King James II of Majorca constructed the castle in the 14th century, and it was later utilized as a military prison for political detainees. Today, it serves as a historical museum and is surrounded by lush forests. Bellver Castle is also a popular venue for cultural events, including concerts, and is a significant symbol of Palma city.
New Castle of Manzanares el Real[SEE MAP]
The Castle of Manzanares el Real, a 15th century fortress, stands out with its impressive appearance and is considered one of the most well-preserved castles in the Madrid region. Not only is it renowned for its historical significance, but it also gained fame for being featured in a scene from the epic movie, El Cid. Referred to as the Castle de los Mendoza, it served as a presidential palace for this influential family. Constructed entirely of granite, this six-floor castle exemplifies the excellence of Spanish military architecture. Presently, it serves as a museum dedicated to showcasing the rich history of Spanish castles.
Alcazaba of Almeria
The Alcazaba of Almeria, situated in the southern region of Spain, is a fortress perched on a hill that provides a commanding view of the city of Almeria. The term “alcazaba” originates from an Arabic word denoting a fortified wall, which accurately describes the nature of the Alcazaba of Almeria. Within its walls, one can discover residences and shops. Originally constructed by Muslims during the 10th century, subsequent expansions were carried out by the Catholics in later periods. Fans of cinema may recognize certain sections of the alcazaba, particularly if they have watched films like Conan the Barbarian or Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
Penafiel Castle
Peñafiel Castle, situated in the town of Peñafiel in Valladolid Province, is an impressive fortress with a length of approximately 150 meters (490 feet). Perched on a hill, it exudes a commanding presence, reminiscent of a ship with its elongated structure. The keep, towering at nearly 30 meters (100 feet), adds to its grandeur. Constructed over several centuries, from the ninth to the 15th, this castle captivates visitors with its illuminated splendor during the night. Presently, one section of Peñafiel Castle accommodates a wine museum, while the other wing can only be explored through guided tours.
Olite Castle
Visiting Olite Castle offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich royal heritage of the Kingdom of Navarre in northern Spain. Referred to as the Palacio Real de Olite, this magnificent castle was constructed on the remnants of first century Roman ruins, although its actual construction occurred many centuries later. Throughout the years, numerous monarchs contributed to its expansion, resulting in a captivating blend of architectural styles, featuring towers, courtyards, and gardens. Despite falling into disrepair, the Spanish government has diligently undertaken restoration efforts since 1937.
Alcazar of Segovia
The Alcazar of Segovia stands out from other castles in Spain as it was not built as a fortress. Instead, it resembles the fairy-tale castles of Europe and is believed to have inspired the Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World. Perched on a hill, the castle appears to be sailing towards visitors. It was once home to royalty, including Isabella I who was crowned here in 1474. Today, the castle serves as a museum showcasing paintings and an armory.
Alhambra
flickr/Chris Bastian
If you’re a traveler with limited time to explore castles in Spain, then the Alhambra in Granada should be on top of your list. It’s the most famous structure in the country and there’s nothing quite like it. The name Alhambra means “Red Castle” in Arabic and it’s an ancient fortress that showcases stunning and intricate architectural details. The Moors inhabited it for several centuries, which is evident in its design. However, due to its popularity, the number of visitors is restricted. Therefore, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance as per the Alhambra officials.
Lorca Castle
Jose Lorca / Wikipedia
Lorca Castle, situated in Murcia Province, was originally constructed as a defensive stronghold. Remarkably, it successfully withstood invasions throughout its existence since the medieval era. Interestingly, one of the castle’s current displays focuses on the act of storming a castle. Built upon the grounds of a former Muslim citadel, this heritage center, known as the Fortress of the Sun, hosts diverse cultural events. Spanning a vast area, the castle and its exhibits may pose challenges for individuals with limited mobility.
Coca Castle
Coca Castle stands out from other Spanish castles due to its distinctive features. Unlike traditional castles, it has only three sides, as it is ingeniously integrated into a hillside, providing a strategic defense against rear attacks from invaders. Another remarkable aspect of Coca Castle is its architectural influence from the Moors, despite being constructed by Christians in the mid-15th century.
Although the castle’s interior suffered significant damage in the past century, its exterior still showcases Moorish elements, such as the elegant turrets. For those visiting Segovia, a day trip to Coca Castle is highly recommended. While access to the castle is limited to guided tours, it remains open to the public, allowing visitors to explore its fascinating history and unique design.
Castle of La Mota is one of the 10 Best and Beautiful Castles in Spain
The Castle of La Mota, a reconstructed stronghold with origins dating back to the 11th century, has witnessed numerous conflicts between the kings of Castile and Aragon. However, since the 15th century, it has remained under Castilian control. Situated on a hill in Medina del Campo, Valladolid Province, the castle commands the surrounding area. In ancient times, access to the castle was granted through a drawbridge. This medieval fortress, once renowned as a prison, accommodated notable individuals like Hernando Pizarro, a conqueror of Peru, and Cesare Borgia.
