Photos of the Most Splendid Spanish Castles and Palaces (36 Exquisite Structures)
Spain boasts a remarkable legacy of constructing castles, fortresses, and palaces, many of which have withstood the test of time, preserving their grandeur over several centuries.
If you ever find yourself in Spain or are currently there, I implore you to set aside a day to explore these awe-inspiring architectural marvels. Spain’s history is extraordinarily rich, with fortified structures predating the Roman era. Since then, numerous magnificent castles, palaces, and fortresses have been erected for defensive purposes and as opulent residences for monarchs and affluent individuals.
1. Segovia’s Alcazar Castle, Spain
Situated in Segovia, the Alcazar Castle initially served as a Roman fortress built by the Berber Almoravid dynasty in the 11th century. After a collapse, it was reconstructed by King Alfonso X in 1258. Subsequently, the Hall of Kings was added to house Parliament, followed by the construction of the “New Tower” by King John II. Today, it stands as the John II Tower. Throughout its history, the Alcazar Castle has transformed from a fortress into a royal palace, state prison, Royal Artillery College, and military academy. It currently functions as a museum and military archives building and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Details of the Alcazar Castle
Location: Segovia, Spain
Erected in: 11th Century
Built by: Berber Almoravid Dynasty
Architectural Style: Moorish Architecture
Present Function: Museum and military archives building / UNESCO World Heritage Site
Current Owner: Government of Segovia, Spain
2. Andalusia’s Alhambra Palace, Spain
Referred to as the “Red One” or the “Red Castle,” the Alhambra Palace resides in Granada, Andalusia, Spain. Originally a small fortress constructed in AD 889, it was later rebuilt by Mohammed ben Al-Ahmar of the Nasrid Dynasty in the mid-13th century. Under the rule of Sultan Yusuf I, the fortress was transformed into a palace in the 14th century, with Renaissance-style modifications in the 15th century. Despite experiencing significant destruction, the palace was eventually restored and preserved. Today, it is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Details of the Alhambra Palace
Location: Granada, Andalusia, Spain
Constructed in: 13th century
Built by: Mohammed ben Al-Ahmar of the Nasrid Dynasty
Architectural Style: Renaissance style / Islamic Architecture
Present Function: UNESCO World Heritage Site
Current Owner: Government of Granada, Spain
3. Aragon’s Aljaferia Palace, Spain
The Aljaferia Palace, located in Zaragoza (formerly the Taifa of Zaragoza of Al-Andalus), Aragon, Spain, was established in the 11th century as a fortified medieval Islamic palace. After the reconquest of Zaragoza by Alfonso of Aragon, it became the residence of Christian kings. Under Peter IV of Aragon, the palace was transformed into a royal residence designed in Renaissance style. Over the years, it underwent multiple reforms, suffered damages, and witnessed changes until it was restored in the 20th century, now serving as the Parliament of Aragon. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Details of the Aljaferia Palace
Location: Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain
Constructed in: 11th century
Built by: Abu Jaffar Al-Muqtadir
Architectural Style: Mudéjar Architecture of Aragon / Moorish Architecture
Present Function: UNESCO World Heritage Site / House of the Parliament of Aragon
Current Owner: Government of Aragon, Spain
4. Aragon’s Alquezar Knight’s Castle, Spain
Perched on a hill in Aragon, Spain, the Alquezar Knight’s Castle is a medieval Arab stronghold built by the Muslim army in the 9th century under the command of the nobleman of Zaragoza, Jalaf ibn Rasid. Sancho Ramirez, leading the Christian armies, seized the stronghold during the reconquest of Spain in 1067. It subsequently became the property of the Kingdom of Aragon and later the Kingdom of Spain. Recognized as a National Artistic Historical Monument of Spain and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, it stands as a testament to medieval architecture.
Details of the Alquezar Knight’s Castle
Location: Aragon, Spain
Constructed in: 9th century
Built by: Arabic military general Jalaf ibn Rasid
Architectural Style: Medieval Architecture
Present Function: UNESCO World Heritage Site / National Artistic Historical Monument of Spain
Current Owner: Government of Aragon, Spain
5. Alicante’s Atalaya Castle, Spain
Atalaya Castle, also known as Castillo de la Atalaya, is located in Villena, Alicante, Spain. The exact date of its construction remains unknown, but it is believed to have been built by Muslims atop the remains of a former Roman fortification. The castle famously withstood three sieges led by James I of Aragon before he finally conquered it in 1240. In 1476, encouraged by the Catholic Monarchs, the citizens of Villena rebelled against the marquesses, resulting in the killing of several Jews and conversos who had sought refuge in the castle. Consequently, it ceased being the residence of the marquesses and instead became a royal possession. Today, it is a Historical-Artistic Monument declared in 1931.
Details of the Atalaya Castle
Location: Villena, Alicante, Spain
Constructed in: Unknown
Built by: Unknown
Architectural Style: Medieval Architecture
Present Function: Historical-Artistic Monument / Open to the public
Current Owner: Government of Villena, Spain
6. Spain’s Butrón Castle in Gatika
The Butrón Castle, a medieval stronghold situated in Gatika, Biscay, Spain, was originally a towerhouse in the 13th century. It was later transformed into a castle by the fifth Lord of Butrón in the 14th century. Witnessing various battles and periods of abandonment, it was finally restored in the late 19th century by architect Francisco de Cubas. Today, the castle welcomes visitors from around the world.
Details of the Butrón Castle
Location: Gatika, Spain
Constructed in: 14th century
Built by: Fifth Lord of Butrón
Architectural Style: Medieval Architecture
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owner: Government of Gatika, Spain
7. Girona’s Castell d’en Plaja, Spain
The Castell d’en Plaja is a unique house-castle commissioned by Girona industrialist Narcís Plaja and designed by architect Isidor Bosch in the middle of the 20th century. Located at the end of Sa Caleta Beach, it currently serves as private property.
Details of the Castell d’en Plaja
Location: Girona, Spain
Constructed in: 20th century
Built by: Girona industrialist Narcís
Plaja
Architectural Style: Medieval-inspired Architecture
Present Function: Private property
Current Owner: Unknown
8. Palma de Mallorca’s Castell de Bellver, Spain
The Castell de Bellver, a Gothic-style castle situated in the heart of Palma on the island of Majorca, Balearic Islands, Spain, was constructed in the 14th century for King James II of Majorca. It served as the residence of the Kings of Mallorca and withstood two major sieges, falling into enemy hands only once in its history. Later transformed into a prison, it housed notable prisoners. In 1931, the Spanish Second Republic granted the castle and its surrounding forest to the city of Palma. It was subsequently converted into a museum and restored in 1976 to serve as the city’s History Museum.
Details of the Castell de Bellver
Location: Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Constructed in: 14th century
Built by: King James II of Majorca
Architectural Style: Gothic style
Present Function: Spanish Property of Cultural Interest
Current Owner: Palma de Mallorca City Council
9. Cordova’s Castillo de Almodovar del Rio, Spain
Originally a Roman fort constructed in the 8th century by the Emirate of Córdoba, the Castillo de Almodóvar del Río underwent several renovations and reconstructions during the Middle Ages. In the 14th century, Alfonso XI ordered the castle’s restoration. Between 1901 and 1936, the 12th Count of Torralva, Rafael Desmaissieres, commissioned architect Adolfo Fernández Casanova to lead the restoration efforts. Today, the castle is open to the public, inviting visitors to marvel at its historical significance.
Details of the Castillo de Almodovar del Rio
Location: Cordova, Spain
Constructed in: 8th century
Built by: Emirate of Córdoba
Architectural Style: Moorish architecture
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owner: Government of Cordova, Spain
10. Toledo’s Castillo de San Servando, Spain
The Castillo de San Servando, originating from a Visigothic monastery possibly founded in the 7th century, was transformed into an Arab castle after Toledo’s conquest by the Umayyads in the early 8th century. In 1085, it was recaptured by the Christian army of King Alfonso VI of Castile, who rebuilt it as a fortified monastery. Unfortunately, it was later attacked and destroyed by the Almoravids. In the same century, it was granted to the Knights Templar by King Alfonso VIII of Castile, and they reconstructed it as the Castillo de San Servando.
Details of the Castillo de San Servando
Location: Toledo, Spain
Constructed in: 7th century
Built by: Unknown
Architectural Style: Gothic style
Present Function: Youth Hostel
Current Owner: Government of Toledo, Spain
11. Guadalajara’s Zafra Castle, Spain
The Castle of Zafra in Campillo de Dueñas, Guadalajara, Spain, is a 13th-century castle built by the Kingdom of Aragon. It stands on the exact site where former Visigothic and Moorish fortifications were constructed, which were conquered by the Christian kingdoms of northern Spain in the 12th century. The castle has never been conquered, withstanding the King of Castile’s attack in the 13th century and surviving the Reconquista in the 15th century. After losing its military significance, the castle fell into ruin before being restored by its private owners.
Details of the Zafra Castle
Location: Guadalajara, Spain
Constructed in: 13th century
Built by: Kingdom of Aragon
Architectural Style: Sandstone castle
Present Function: Private property
Current Owner: Private owner
12. Benalmádena’s Castillo Monumento Colomares, Spain
The Castillo Monumento Colomares is a Gothic-style monument in the form of a castle. Built between 1987 and 1994 near Benalmádena, Spain, it is dedicated to the life and adventures of Christopher Columbus.
Details of the Castillo Monumento Colomares
Location: Benalmádena, Spain
Constructed between: 1987-1994
Built for: Christopher Columbus
Architectural Style: Gothic style
Present Function: Open to the public / Tourist attraction
Current Owner: Government of Benalmádena
13. Cuenca’s Castle of Belmonte, Spain
The Castle of Belmonte, situated on the hill of San Cristobal in the province of Cuenca, Spain, is a medieval castle dating back to the second half of the 15th century. Ordered by Don Juan Pacheco, the first Marquis de Villena, it fell into abandonment for two centuries after his death. The castle was later restored in the 19th century by Empress Eugenia de Montijo and her architect Alejandro Sureda. However, it was abandoned once again after the Empress’ passing. Finally, in the summer of 2010, it was fully restored and opened to the public by the current owners, the descendants of the Empress’ sister, Maria Francisca de Sales Portocarrero.
Details of the Castle of Belmonte
Location: San Cristobal, Cuenca, Spain
Constructed in: 15th century
Built by: Don Juan Pacheco
Architectural Style: Medieval architecture
Present Function: National Artistic Treasury / Bien de Interés Cultural / Open to the public
Current Owner: Maria Francisca de Sales Portocarrero
14. Cuenca’s Castle of Arteaga, Spain
The Castle of Arteaga, also located on the hill of San Cristobal in Cuenca, Spain, was declared a historic monument within the National Artistic Treasury in 1931 and is currently a Bien de Interés Cultural. Initially built by Don Juan Pacheco in the 15th century, it fell into ruin after his death. In the 19th century, Empress Eugenia de Montijo and her architect Alejandro Sureda initiated its restoration. Unfortunately, the project halted following the Empress’ death, leaving the castle abandoned once again. In the summer of 2010, it was fully restored and opened to the public by the descendants of the Empress’ sister, Maria Francisca de Sales Portocarrero.
Details of the Castle of Arteaga
Location: San Cristobal, Cuenca, Spain
Constructed in: 15th century
Built by: Don Juan Pacheco
Architectural Style: Medieval architecture
Present Function: National Artistic Treasury / Bien de Interés Cultural / Open to the public
Current Owner: Maria Francisca de Sales Portocarrero
15. Medina del Campo’s Castle of La Mota, Spain
The Castle of La Mota, also known as Castillo de La Mota, is a medieval fortress located in Medina del Campo, Valladolid, Spain. Constructed between the 14th and 15th centuries on the foundation of a former Moorish fort, it was commissioned by John II of Aragon, designed by Alonso Niño and Fernando Carreño. Throughout history, the castle has
served as one of the seats of the Court of the Kingdom of Navarre and has been a prominent prison. Today, it is a Bien de Interés Cultural, welcoming visitors to explore its historical significance.
Details of the Castle of La Mota
Location: Medina del Campo, Spain
Constructed between: 14th and 15th centuries
Built by: John II of Aragon
Architectural Style: Medieval architecture
Present Function: Bien de Interés Cultural / Open to the public
Current Owner: Junta of Castile and León
16. Loarre’s Castle in Loarre, Spain
The Castle of Loarre, a Romanesque castle and abbey located in the Aragon autonomous region of Spain, dates back to the 11th and 12th centuries. It is one of the oldest castles in Spain and was largely built under the reign of King Sancho Ramírez.
Details of the Castle of Loarre
Location: Loarre, Spain
Constructed between: 11th and 12th centuries
Built by: King Sancho Ramírez
Architectural Style: Romanesque style
Present Function: Open to the public
Current Owner: Spanish Government
17. Olite’s Royal Palace in Navarre, Spain
Since the 13th century, the Castle of Olite, also known as the Palace of the King of Navarre, served as one of the seats of the Court of the Kingdom of Navarre. It was built on the foundations of the first Roman fortification and features a combination of Gothic and Mudéjar architectural elements.
Details of the Royal Palace of Olite / Castle of Olite
Location: Navarre, Spain
Constructed between: 14th and 15th centuries
Built by: Architects Saúl de Arnedo and Juan D’Espernou
Architectural Style: Gothic style mixed with Mudéjar elements
Present Function: Open to the public / National Monument
Current Owner: Government of Navarre
18. Coca’s Castle in Coca, Spain
Coca Castle, locally known as Castillo de Coca, is situated in the municipality of Coca, central Spain. It was constructed in the 15th century by Alonso de Fonseca, the powerful archbishop of Seville. The castle showcases Mudéjar brickwork, blending Moorish designs with Gothic-style architecture.
Details of Coca’s Castle
Location: Coca, Spain
Constructed in: 15th century
Built by: Alonso de Fonseca
Architectural Style: Mudéjar brickwork (Moorish and Gothic mix)
Present Function: Tourist attraction
Current Owner: Alva family
19. Astorga’s Episcopal Palace in Astorga, Spain
The Episcopal Palace of Astorga, designed by the renowned Spanish Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, was built between 1889 and 1913 in the Catalan Modernisme style. While Gaudí resigned from the project due to disagreements with the council after the death of Bishop Grau, the palace was completed between 1907 and 1915 under the guidance of Ricardo Garcia Guereta. It now serves as the Museum of Roads.
Details of the Episcopal Palace
Location: Astorga, Spain
Constructed between: 1889 and 1913
Built by: Antoni Gaudí
Architectural Style: Catalan Modernisme style
Present Function: Museum of Roads
Current Owner: Government of León
20. Toledo’s Guadamur Castle, Spain
Guadamur Castle, a medieval castle, is located in the town of Guadamur in Toledo, Spain. It was constructed in the 15th century by Count Pedro Lopez de Ayala, who ruled over Fuensalida and was Lord of Cedillo. The castle was later destroyed during the French invasion in 1809 but was restored to its original 15th-century appearance by Count Asalto.
Details of Guadamur Castle
Location: Toledo, Spain
Constructed in: 15th century
Built by: Count Pedro Lopez de Ayala
Architectural Style: Gothic style
Present Function: Open to the public / Tourist attraction
Current Owner: Lopez de Ayala family
21. Jarandilla de la Vera’s Castle, Spain
The Jarandilla Castle, located in Jarandilla de la Vera, Spain, is a defensive fortress believed to have been built in the 13th century. It stands today as a well-preserved tourist attraction.
Details of Jarandilla Castle
Location: Jarandilla de la Vera, Spain
Constructed in: 13th century
Built by: Unknown
Architectural Style: Medieval architecture
Present Function: Open to the public / Tourist attraction
Current Owner: Government of Jarandilla de la Vera
22. Xavier’s Castle in Navarre, Spain
The Castle of Xavier, built in the 10th century on a hill in the town of Javier, Navarre, Spain, belonged to the Kingdom of Navarre and was never part of France. It is believed to have been constructed by the nobles of Aragon and later given to Sancho VII of Navarre as a loan payment. Ownership of the castle was transferred to the House of Villahermosa, including the town of Javier, through successive inheritances.
Details of Xavier’s Castle
Location: Javier, Navarre, Spain
Constructed between: 10th and 11th centuries
Built by: Nobles of Aragon
Architectural Style: Gothic style
Present Function: Tourist attraction
Current Owner: Government of Javier, Spain
23. Ponferrada’s Knights Templar Castle, Spain
The Knights Templar Castle in Ponferrada, Spain, was built by the Templar Knights in the 12th century. Over the course of the 14th century, successive owners made improvements to the castle until its completion. The Templar Knights occupied the castle for two centuries until their disbandment by Philip IV of France in 1307 due to growing mistrust in the organization.
Details of the Knights Templar Castle
Location: Ponferrada, Spain
Constructed in: 12th century
Built by: The Templar Knights
Architectural Style: Medieval architecture
Present Function: Tourist attraction
Current Owner: Government of Ponferrada, Spain
24. Segovia’s La Granja de San Ildefonso, Spain
The Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso, also known as La Granja de San Ildefonso, is an early 18th-century palace situated in the hills of the Province of Segovia. It was built on the site of a former hunting lodge used by Henry IV of Castile in the 15th century. King Philip V purchased the lodge from the monks in 1719 and commissioned architect Teodoro Ardemans to construct a Baroque palace.
Details of La Granja de San Ildefonso
Location: Segovia, Spain
Constructed in: 18th century
Built by: Architect Teodoro Ardemans
Architectural Style: Baroque architecture
Present Function: Tourist attraction / Patrimonio Nacional of Spain
Current Owner: Government of Segovia, Spain
25. Santander’s La Magdalena Palace, Spain
The La Magdalena Palace, located on the Peninsula of La Magdalena in Santander, Spain, was built in the early 20th century as a summer residence for the Spanish royal family. It was designed by architects Javier González Riancho and Gonzalo Bringas Vega. Today, it serves as a cultural and conference center.
Details of the La Magdalena Palace
Location: Santander, Spain
Constructed in: Early 20th century
Built by: Architects Javier González Riancho and Gonzalo Bringas Vega
Architectural Style: Eclectic style
Present Function: Cultural and conference center
Current Owner: Government of Cantabria, Spain
26. Lugo’s Las Marmotas Castle, Spain
Las Marmotas Castle, also known as Castillo de Las Marmotas, is located in Lugo, Spain. Built in the 12th century, it served as a fortress and defensive structure. Today, the castle is in ruins but is still a popular tourist attraction.
Details of Las Marmotas Castle
Location: Lugo, Spain
Constructed in: 12th century
Built by: Unknown
Architectural Style: Medieval architecture
Present Function: Tourist attraction
Current Owner: Government of Lugo, Spain
27. Mallorca’s Bellver Castle, Spain
Bellver Castle, situated on a hill overlooking Palma de Mallorca in the Balearic Islands, Spain, was built in the 14th century by King James II of Majorca. It is one of the few circular castles in Europe and has served as a residence, military fortress, and prison throughout history. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction.
Details of Bellver Castle
Location: Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Constructed in: 14th century
Built by: King James II of Majorca
Architectural Style: Gothic style
Present Function: Tourist attraction
Current Owner: Government of Mallorca, Spain
28. Alicante’s Castle of Santa Barbara, Spain
The Castle of Santa Barbara, located on Mount Benacantil in Alicante, Spain, is one of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe. It dates back to the 9th century, with significant additions and renovations made during the 16th century. The castle offers panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea and is a popular tourist destination.
Details of the Castle of Santa Barbara
Location: Alicante, Spain
Constructed in: 9th century
Built by: Unknown
Architectural Style: Medieval architecture
Present Function: Tourist attraction
Current Owner: Government of Alicante, Spain
29. Madrid’s Royal Palace, Spain
The Royal Palace of Madrid, known as the Palacio Real, is the official residence of the Spanish royal family. It was completed in 1764 and is considered one of the largest palaces in Europe. The palace features a mix of architectural styles, including Baroque and Neoclassical, and houses a significant collection of artwork and historical artifacts. While it is the official residence of the royal family, they typically use it for official ceremonies and events rather than as a primary residence.
Details of the Royal Palace of Madrid
Location: Madrid, Spain
Constructed between: 1738 and 1764
Built by: Architects Filippo Juvarra and Juan Bautista Sachetti
Architectural Style: Baroque and Neoclassical styles
Present Function: Official residence for ceremonies and events
Current Owner: Government of Spain
30. Barcelona’s Park Güell, Spain
While not a castle or palace in the traditional sense, Park Güell in Barcelona, Spain, deserves a mention for its unique and fantastical architecture. Designed by Antoni Gaudí, the park features vibrant mosaic-covered structures, winding paths, and whimsical designs. It was originally intended as a residential garden city but was later transformed into a public park. Today, Park Güell is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction.
Details of Park Güell
Location: Barcelona, Spain
Constructed between: 1900 and 1914
Built by: Antoni Gaudí
Architectural Style: Modernist and Art Nouveau styles
Present Function: Public park / Tourist attraction
Current Owner: Government of Barcelona, Spain
These are just a few examples of the splendid castles and palaces that can be found throughout Spain. Each one showcases unique architectural styles and offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the country. Exploring these magnificent structures can be an enchanting experience, allowing visitors to step back in time and appreciate the grandeur of Spain’s past.