10 of the most interesting Spanish castles

In most cases, the castles of Spain was not meant for beauty but to defend his lands. They are powerful and sometimes frightening structure. Sometimes they lived reigning persons, sometimes they were prisoners, but most often it housed the military.

Today, the castles of Spain are the special attraction of the country through which to explore the medieval power of Castile.

1. Lorca Castle

Located in the province of Murcia, Lorca castle was designed as a defensive fortress. And very well developed, given that he never fell under the power hitters. Constructed a castle on the site of a Muslim citadel, on a high hill. Lorca is today an important cultural centre, known under the name "Fortress of the sun". It also organizes a variety of activities, most often musical.

2. Coca Castle

This fortification is unique. She has only three walls and the fourth side is protected by a natural barrier, an insurmountable hill. The castle was built in the 15th century Christians, but under the influence of Moorish architecture. Coca open to the public and can be visited on a day trip to Segovia, in organized groups.

3. Castle Of La Motta

This reconstructed fortification has its roots in the 11th century. For a long time sovereignty over it was challenged by the kings of Castile and Aragon to rule over the area of Medina del Campo, and in the 15th century, the castle became the Castilian. One time he was jailed such legendary figures as Hernando Pizarro and Cesare Borgia.

4. Bellver Castle

Tourists who want to explore the castle of Bellver, should reach the island of Mallorca off the coast of Spain. The walls of the main building and the towers are unusual for such huge structures round. For a long time the Property was used as a political prison, and now it is a Museum of history. The castle is surrounded by a forest is host to many events and is considered the symbol of the city of Palma de Mallorca.

5. The castle of Manzanares El real

This well-preserved castle, located near Madrid, also known as Castillo De Los Mendoza, because for a long time was the residence of this family. Built entirely of granite, fortification is a good example of Spanish military architecture, which houses an interesting Museum.

6. The Alcazaba de almería

Located in the South of Spain fortification occupies a vast territory with houses and shops. Built by Muslims in the 10th century and later converted Christians, the castle is famous as the filming location of the movie "Conan the barbarian" and "Indiana Jones and the last crusade".

7. Peñafiel Castle

The castle is located in the province of Valladolid and like a ship with high 30-metre towers. It was built in the period from the 9th to the 15th century and today contains a unique wine Museum. Penafiel is particularly impressive at night when fully lit.

8. Castle Of Olite

Also known as Palacio real de Olite, the castle provides an opportunity to meet other Spanish culture-Navarre, in the North of the country. It was built on ancient Roman ruins by using a variety of architectural styles, with towers, courtyards, gardens.

9. The alcázar de Segovia

Unlike other Spanish castles, the Alcazar de Segovia is striking in its beauty and elegance. Here lived many princesses, including Isabella First, which in 1474 became Queen of Spain. Currently, you can visit the Museum, where exhibits paintings and rich military Arsenal.

10. The Alhambra

Tourists who have time to visit only one castle in Spain, you must choose the fortification of the Alhambra in Granada. Nothing compares to this ancient fortress, which is also called the Red castle. Moorish architecture of the castle is charming, especially that preserved it perfectly. To get here is not just have to book tickets in advance.