The most beautiful and unusual castles of Spain

Built in the XV century, Castillo de Coca is a classic example of Spanish architectural style Mudejar. The brick structure with an openwork upper line of walls and unusual turrets looks as if it was built not only for protection, but also for beauty.

Coca castle in the province of Segovia belongs to the aristocratic family of Alba. Now it is home to a school of foresters, and it is open to the public daily from 10.30 to 13.00 and from 16.30 to 18.00.

During the 8 centuries of the fortress's existence, a lot of interesting things happened here. It was at the center of military events and conspiracies, it is associated with the battle that eventually led to the unification of Spain, it was the last days of the life of Queen Isabella of Castile, and by the XVII century the castle was seriously destroyed and restored only in the middle of the XX century. But now it is an object of cultural heritage of Spain and a place for theatrical performances. For visitors, part of the castle is open for free, and a detailed inspection of the interior is possible on a paid tour.

The Royal residence, located in a strategic location, has been and remains the center of attention. Here kings lived, battles were fought, intrigues were woven, and agreements were made that were fateful for the entire country. Later, the castle was a prison and an artillery Academy, and today it houses the General military archive of Spain.

The interior of the fortress tells almost the entire history of architectural styles of Spain. Since the first fortification on the rocks in the XII century, it was completed and reconstructed, and now we can admire the well-preserved halls.

The castle is open to tourists daily for a small charge, the entrance to the tower and the tour are paid separately.

The construction of fortifications here began in the XI century, and by the XII century on the hill above the port towered the castle that we can see now. The Arab fortress was named Alcazaba and was surrounded by gardens, along which the way to the gate took meandering paths. In 1487, it survived a long siege and passed into the possession of the Spanish crown, and just 2 centuries later it was abandoned and for almost 200 years it stood in a dilapidated state.

Today, the Alcazaba has been reconstructed and is open to visitors. By the way, this is not the only fortress in Malaga: on the same hill there is another fortification – the fortress of Gibralfaro.

In the North of Spain, in the middle of quaint forests, there is a surprisingly beautiful fortress. Unlike the southern forts, the architecture of Butron is far from Arabian motifs. Neo-Gothic, romanticism – the eclecticism of the castle was formed as a result of completion and restoration, which were carried out in different centuries by different families.

As a protected cultural object, the castle is privately owned. It used to be the ancestral estate of noble families, a hotel, and a venue for events. What fate awaits this amazing building next is unknown, but in any case, if possible, you should come for a walk among the palms and oaks with a view of the huge ancient towers.

Another royal residence, this fortress was the result of gradual construction for the purposes of protection. First, the Moors built fortifications, then, almost on the ruins, in the XIV century, a royal palace was built, resembling its modern appearance.

Strict and concise, the updated structure absorbed Islamic motifs. Cozy courtyards, carved galleries, and shaped walls with colorful decoration contrast with the external severity. Everyone can admire this contrast – the castle is open to visitors independently and with excursions.

Among the thousands of castles in Spain there are many similar ones, but Castel de Belver is absolutely unique, or rather – it is the only round castle in the world. You can tell a lot about its history or describe the interior, but all visitors are attracted here by one thing: a luxurious circular terrace with views of the Bay of Palma de Mallorca. A walk through such an amazing structure really gives a lot of pleasure. The Royal residence in classic Gothic style contrasts with the bright sea and fresh breeze, creating a truly unique impression.

This fortress, though small, is very interesting to visit. The first fortification here was built in the IX century, however, due to the destruction it was largely rebuilt in the XIII century.

Today, the castle houses an impressive library, including ancient scrolls and rare publications, the wine museum, and the Museum of Catalan glass. World stars gave concerts in the garden gallery with unique acoustics, and the restaurant located here was a favorite restaurant of Salvador Dali. It is said that he often came from nearby Figueres and liked to spend time here with Gala. You can visit this castle with a tour from Barcelona or Costa Brava.

In Spain, every year dozens of castles are put up for auction – they are bought for various reasons, but most often for business purposes.

Buying a castle and setting up a hotel in it, holding parties, renting it out for weddings, or just developing it as a tourist destination – it is, of course, troublesome, but very exciting. However, the maintenance of old fortresses often exceeds the income, which is probably why not all owners cope.

However, walking around a castle in Spain, you can imagine yourself as its owner for a moment. Carefully look at the size of the rooms and the barbecue area, figure out where you would like to receive guests, assess the scope of roof repairs and ... catch up with the guide, feeling happy to just enjoy the place without obligations!