Spain
Castles and Fortresses of Spain
Collection

Castles and Fortresses of Spain

Seven centuries of Reconquista left Spain with more castles per square kilometer than almost anywhere in Europe. These are the ones worth a stop — from the Disney silhouette of Segovia to the Moorish Alcazaba of Málaga.

What's Inside
  • Sights & Nature10
Where It Goes

Andalusia · Aragón · Balearic Islands · Castilla y León · Castilla-La Mancha · Valencia

The Frame

Castle and fortress architecture across Spain

How To Use It
  • Recommended3
  • Optional7
Why This List

The Alcázar of Segovia is the famous one; Ávila's walls are the biggest; the Aljafería in Zaragoza is the most underrated.

The List

10 places

Castillo de Gibralfaro
Optional
Castle

Castillo de Gibralfaro

Andalusia

A strategic 14th-century fortress offering the most comprehensive panoramic views of the city, port, and coast

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Alcazaba of Málaga
Optional
Castle

Alcazaba of Málaga

Andalusia

A beautiful 11th-century Moorish citadel featuring terraced gardens and the finest outlook over the port

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Belmonte Castle
Optional
Castle

Belmonte Castle

Castilla-La Mancha

Authentically restored 15th-century castle offering a glimpse into grand medieval courtly life

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Alcázar of Toledo
Optional
Castle

Alcázar of Toledo

Castilla-La Mancha

A historic fortress offering insight into the Civil War alongside unmatched city views from its summit

Source Verified
Muralla de Ávila
Recommended
Historical Site

Muralla de Ávila

Castilla y León

An 11th-century granite defensive wall encircling the old city of Ávila, largely intact with 88 towers.

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Alcázar de Segovia
Optional
Castle

Alcázar de Segovia

Castilla y León

A castle perched on a cliff, long cited as a classic of medieval military architecture.

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Castillo de Peñíscola
Recommended
Castle

Castillo de Peñíscola

Valencia

A 13th-century Templar castle set atop a rocky peninsula in the coastal town of Peñíscola.

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Castell de Bellver
Optional
Castle

Castell de Bellver

Balearic Islands

A rare circular Gothic fortress offering the finest panoramic views across Palma Bay

Source Verified
Castell de Xàtiva
Recommended
Castle

Castell de Xàtiva

Valencia

A twin medieval fortress complex above the town of Xàtiva, used historically as a royal prison.

Source Verified
Aljafería Palace
Optional
Castle

Aljafería Palace

Aragón

An 11th-century Islamic palace, notable for its golden Mudéjar throne room.

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