Castillo de los Vélez was built in 1524 on the ruins of an older castle from which some remains are visible. The castle was ordered by Mister Pedro Fajardo (Marquis of Vélez) to Luis Fajardo to ensure submission of the town of Mula, which was up in arms against the Marquis. This castle of Renaissance style and simple lines was created as a defense structure.
The castle, built on a rocky outcrop, has one single nave with vault, a tribute tower, a tanks and an annex. Inside there is little decoration, with rough, functional lines. The only ornamental pieces are eight shields of the Fajardo and Silva families. There are beautiful views of the Mula river from the North side and of the entire town from the lower terrace. The tribute tower was accessed via a rising footbridge later replaced by a fixed bridge. In case of invasion, the soldiers went to the tower, where a tank ensured water supply.
From the high part of the town, where the Royal Encarnación Monastery is located, the Albacar trail leads to the Castle. You can also go by car taking the road to Caravaca. Right after exiting the town, there are indications for the castle. Follow them all the way to the Castle base.
References:The Gravensteen is a castle in Ghent originating from the Middle Ages. The name means 'castle of the counts' in Dutch. Arnulf I (918–965), Count of Flanders, was the first to fortify this place, building a medieval bastion on this high sand dune, naturally protected by the river Leie and its marshy banks. This bastion consisted of a central wooden building and several surrounding buildings, also in wood.
In the early 11th century, the wooden building was replaced by a stone residence, consisting of three large halls that made up three storeys, connected by a stone stairwell. The monumental stone staircase, the light openings, the fireplaces built into the walls and the latrines were signs of considerable luxury and comfort in those days. There was probably also a tower.