Discover Spain's Enchanting Castles
Spain boasts a collection of enchanting castles, with the Alcázar of Segovia inspiring Disney's Cinderella Castle. These structures served as royal abodes and military strongholds, showcasing architectural diversity from Moorish to medieval styles, as seen in Granada's Alhambra.
Many castles feature a blend of styles from different rulers, often incorporating churches into Islamic fortresses. For castle enthusiasts, Spain offers a rich tapestry of history and design.
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1. Alcázar de Segovia
The Alcázar of Segovia, perched on a hill in Segovia, is a fortress and former royal palace. Its fairy-tale architecture, with conical roofs and turreted towers, influenced Disney's iconic castle. Built in the 12th century, it was expanded by monarchs like Isabela I. The Torre de Juan offers panoramic views, while the Sala de los Reyes dazzles with gilded features. Visitors can explore furnished chambers and halls, complete with medieval tapestries and armaments.
- Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Segovia
2. The Alhambra, Granada
The Alhambra in Granada is a sprawling complex with a rich history, beginning as a Roman fortress and evolving into a Moorish royal palace. The Generalife gardens and the Nasrid Palaces, with their intricate carvings and the famous Patio de los Leones, are highlights. The Alcazaba section offers a glimpse into the military past. Visitors should book tickets in advance and explore the museums within the Palacio de Carlos V.
3. Castillo de Coca (Coca Castle)
Coca Castle in Segovia is a 15th-century palace with a distinctive Mudejar style. Despite its deteriorated interior, guided tours offer insights into its past grandeur. Its decorative battlements and moat reflect its status as a regal residence rather than a military stronghold.
4. Castillo de Loarre (Loarre Castle)
Loarre Castle, near Ayerbe, is a fortified royal residence built on limestone bedrock. It features cylindrical towers and a Romanesque church, with no Moorish architectural influence.
5. Olite Castle (Royal Palace of Olite)
The Royal Palace of Olite, a Gothic castle, was once filled with gardens, exotic animals, and an arena. Its irregular layout and towers offer stunning views. Now a national monument, it has been restored to its former splendor.
6. Castel de Bellver (Bellver Castle)
Bellver Castle in Mallorca is a unique circular fortress built by King James of Majorca. It now hosts cultural events and houses a historical museum.
7. Peñafiel Castle
Peñafiel Castle in Valladolid Province is a striking structure resembling a ship when illuminated at night. It houses a museum and offers guided tours.
8. Castille de La Mota (Castle of La Mota)
The Castle of La Mota in Medina del Campo features a 40-meter-tall Homage Tower and is known as the Great Tower of Castille. Tours are recommended.
9. Alcazaba de Málaga (Citadel of Málaga)
The Citadel of Málaga contains Roman, Arabic, and Renaissance elements, with a Roman theater at its base and a fortified Arab defense above. Guided tours are available.
- Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Málaga
10. Castillo de Peñíscola (Peñíscola Castle)
Peñíscola Castle, built by the Knights Templar, is now a botanic park offering stunning Mediterranean views.
11. New Castle of Manzanares el Real
Also known as Castillo de los Mendoza, this castle was featured in the film El Cid. It's a fortress and palace with a museum dedicated to Spanish castles, located near Madrid.
12. Castillo de Burgalimar (Burgalimar Castle)
Burgalimar Castle in Andalusia, also known as Castillo Baños de la Encina, is a Moorish fortress with Christian additions, including a Gothic keep.
13. Lorca Castle (Fortress of the Sun)
Lorca Castle in Murcia offers tours, workshops, and exhibits, including a Jewish Quarter with a synagogue.
14. Alcazaba of Almería
The Alcazaba of Almería, a 10th-century Arabic fortress, features Gothic influences and has appeared in several films. It offers stunning views of Almería Bay.
15. Castillo de Ponferrada (Ponferrada Castle)
The Castle of the Templars in Ponferrada is known for its library of rare manuscripts and books, including a copy of the Book of Kells.
Official site: www.castillodelostemplarios.com
