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.

References:

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User Reviews

Elena Navarro (2 years ago)
Nice place to visit along with the Cuevas De las Maravillas

Heidi Celeghin (2 years ago)
A small castle/fort with moorish settlement ruins as well as a church. It’s worth the view and seeing the old structures. Tickets for the castle are sold in conjunction with tickets to the caves.

Kira Browne (3 years ago)
I always love to get to a high point in a new place, and this didn't disappoint for beautiful views over Aracena and the surrounding hills. Very tranquil. Part of it was closed for maintenance when I went, so the part you could visit was small, but the entrance fee was cheap so I didn't mind (I think around 2,50€, although I got the joint ticket for here, the caves, and the ham museum, which is cheaper if you visit all three). There is an audio guide available, but I was disappointed with this as it didn't really match with the places around the castle, it just told you random info about the castle and its history, when I would have liked to know more about the parts of the castle I was seeing. Friendly woman at the entrance checking tickets!

Tords Datorservice (4 years ago)
Good audio guide. Strukture is under renovation so it will be better in the future

Pegah (5 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 :)

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