Aracena Castle

Aracena, Spain

Aracena Castle was erected in the 13th century, during the Islamic period, and was itself built on the site of an ancient Moorish castle. The walled enclosure was partitioned inside, with the tower of homage, or castle keep, defending the barrier that divided its interior. The population of Aracena settled around this structure, giving rise to the current urban landscape. During the late Middle and Modern Ages, Aracena continued growing from the Cerro del Castillo (castle hill) into the valley, first as unattached land dependent on Seville and later, in the seventeenth century, as a feudal estate under the jurisdiction of the Count-Duke of Olivares. Still later, it was under the Count of Altamira, who carried the title of Prince of Aracena.

The fortress consists of the alcazaba, or citadel, with its watch tower, cistern and walls; these are flanked by other towers, as well as a fence line that, in its interior, once accommodated medieval living quarters.

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Address

Aracena, Spain
See all sites in Aracena

Details

Founded: 13th century
Category: Castles and fortifications in Spain

More Information

www.andalucia.org

Rating

4/5 (based on Google user reviews)

Interesting Sites Nearby


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User Reviews

Tords Datorservice (11 months ago)
Good audio guide. Strukture is under renovation so it will be better in the future
Pegah (2 years ago)
The castle looks abandoned and we couldn't go in (locked doors). But the view is breathtaking from the spot and it takes a short (and pleasant) walk to make a full circle around the castle. I was fortunate to have a historian friend with me explaining the castle's past but in general there is no guide. If you can, look its history up online before visiting. It gives a whole different vibe visiting it. Pay attention to the combination of Arabic and Christian architecture in the church right next to the castle. Details are all that makes this place special to visi :)
Vitor Moreira (2 years ago)
The tour was good and if you buy the combined ticket, its worth it. Did you know that the Portuguese built the castle?
Oscar Bornico (2 years ago)
Well organized visit. The guide knows very well that fortification. Not expensive if you buy the combine tlcket with the Cabe.
Lachlan Burns (3 years ago)
Beautiful old castle on the hill overlooking Arecena. Why they have repaired the walls back to square is beyond me. It now looks very bland and has lost a lot of the romance it once had. Never the less it has spectacular views over the area and is beautifully lit at dusk There is now a charge to go inside but you can still walk right around the outside.
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