Top 10 Castles in Spain

Castillo de Loarre is the best-preserved Romanesque fortress in Spain, with construction starting in 1020. Its walls are 3.5 meters thick, and the castle sits at 1,000 meters elevation on a rocky outcrop. It predates the Alhambra by over 400 years, offering a stark contrast in military design—bare stone versus elaborate palace decoration. This nine-tower complex spans 2 hectares and defended the plains of Aragón without a single siege engine ever breaching its gates.

As Spain's only circular Gothic castle, Castillo de Bellver offers panoramic views of Palma Bay from its 112-meter elevation. Built between 1300 and 1311 for King James II, its unique round design features 24 arched windows and a central courtyard. Its construction predates the Alcázar of Toledo's major 16th-century expansions by over 200 years.

The Alcázar of Toledo has served more roles—Roman palace, medieval fortress, and military academy—than any other castle on this list, with continuous occupation outperforming Castillo de Bellver's 700-year span. Its four corner towers rise 60 meters high, visible from across the Tagus River, and it has housed the Army Museum since 2010.

Castillo de Belmonte is the best-preserved 15th-century castle in La Mancha, with walls 2 meters thick and a moat 30 meters wide. Built in 1456, it hosts annual medieval combat championships that attract thousands. Its construction is 100 years newer than the Castillo de Peñafiel's 14th-century origins.

The Castillo de Peñafiel extends 210 meters along a narrow ridge, making it 30% slimmer than the Castillo de Bellver's circular diameter. Built in the 14th century, it now houses the Provincial Wine Museum, featuring over 1,000 wine labels from the Ribera del Duero region.

Navarra's royal palace was once described as the most luxurious castle in Europe.

Catalonia's best-preserved medieval fortress is now a Parador hotel with panoramic views.