Castles in Castile and Leon
Questions This Article Answers
Does Castilla y León have castillos?
Why does Spain have so many castles?
Examples of famous castles in Spain?
A Little History
It is estimated that Spain is home to over two thousand medieval castles. Castilla y León, located in central-western Spain, is home to many of them. Why so many? En resumidas cuentas(In a nutshell), Castilla was home to many battles in Spanish history. From 711 to 1492, the Moors ruled in Spain. The Reconquista(Reconquest) is said to have officially started in 722 when Pelayo’s troops defeated the Moors in the batalla de Covadonga(Battle of Covadonga), in Asturias, on Spain’s northern coast. The Reconquista very slowly battled its way south, taking Granadafrom the Moors in 1492.
The Reconquista and Its Castles
With 700+ years of fighting, castles were necessary for strategic defense. And given that Castilla was in the middle of Spain, it was home to a lot of warfare; both between the Moors and the Christians, and between rival Christian groups.
What’s in a Name?
There are at least a few theories on how Castilla got its name. Some say it’s the land of the castles. Others trace the name’s etymology back to a Latin word meaning fort. Others claim the name comes from a combination of Celtiberian words.
The Top Ten Castles and Palaces to See in Castilla y León
Castilla is home to hundreds of castles, in many different states of preservation. From the ruins of the Templar castle in Castillejo de Robledo(Soria), to the well-preserved Castillo de Cuéllar(Segovia), there are all sorts of castles to see in Castilla y León!
1. Alcázar de Segovia:
The Alcázar de Segovia(Segovia) has had many uses in its history. Strategically built on the top of a rock outcropping, this impressive building has occasionally housed royalty since at least the twelfth century. Some of Spain’s most important events took place in this building!
2. Castillo de Frías:
Towering high above the town of Frías(Burgos), the Castillo de Frías's history dates back to the ninth century. You’ll have to use your imagination to think of what it might have been like in its heyday, as it is not as well-preserved as some of its counterparts. However, Fríasand its castle are well-worth a visit!
3. Castillo de la Mota:
The Castillo de la Mota(Valladolid) dates back to the fifteenth century. Its defensive walls are impressive, as is its history.
Castle or Prison?
Did you know that Queen Isabella forced her daughter, Juana of Castile, to stay at the Castillo de la Mota for a year?
4. Castillo de Coca:
The gorgeous Castillo de Coca(Segovia) is a great example of mudéjar(Mudejar) brickwork. That’s right, it’s a brick castle!
5. Castillo de Villanueva del Cañedo:
The Castillo de Villanueva del Cañedo(Salamanca) is also known as the Castillo del Buen Amor(Castle of the Good Love). This well-preserved castle has now been converted into a hotel.
Why Castle of the Good Love?
Legend has it that a local bishop lived here with his sweetheart, giving it its nickname.
6. Castillo de Peñafiel:
The massive, boat-shaped Castillo de Peñafieltowers over the town of Peñafiel(Valladolid). It’s especially interesting for tourists because it also houses the Museo Provincial del Vino(Provincial Wine Museum) as Peñafiel is located in the Ribera de Duero, one of the world’s most prestigious winemaking regions.
7. Castillo de Peñaranda:
The Castillo de Peñaranda, a Gothic fortress, overlooks the town of Peñaranda de Duero(Burgos). While there may not be much left of the castle, there is an interesting museum located in its tower!
8. Palacio Real de La Granja de San Ildefonso:
One of just two palaces on our list, the Palacio Real de La Granja de San Ildefonso(Segovia) is just as impressive outside as it is inside! Its fountains are particularly magnificent when turned on.
9. Palacio de Gaudí:
The most modern entry on our list is the Palacio de Gaudí, located in Astorga(León). Built in a Gothic style, this palace is one of famed architect Gaudí’s few works in this part of the country!
10. Castillo de Ponferrada:
The impressive Castillo de Ponferrada(León) was once home to Templar knights. It is currently considered one of the most important castles in north-western Spain!
Keen on Spanish culture? Check out the following articles to learn more!
