Beautiful Castles Near Madrid
Spain has some of the most beautiful castles in Europe, with a diversity of historic origins, architectural styles, and spectacular surrounding landscapes. From medieval fortresses to fairy tale turrets, here are some of the most beautiful castles near Madrid.
Alcazar of Segovia
Less than an hour from Madrid lies the city of Segovia, crowned by the beautiful Alcazar of Segovia. This charming castle is reported to be one of Walt Disney’s inspirations for Cinderella’s Castle in Walt Disney World, with its delicate turrets and graceful walls. Originally a Roman fort, the site was then occupied by the Moors, and then the present castle was built in the 10th century. Over its long history, it has served as a fortress, palace, prison, and military academy, before becoming the museum it is today. The distinctive prow-shape and beauty of the castle are matched by the richly decorated interiors and insights into how the building has functioned over the centuries.
New Castle of Manzanares el Real
Also known as the Castle of Los Mendoza, the New Castle of Manzanares el Real is just outside of Madrid, and is an impressive fortress, with walls that dominate the landscape. Built in 1475, it was designed as a defensive fortress, but quickly converted into a residential royal palace, so the intimidating exterior protects delicate columns, tiled courtyards, and cool gardens. It is the best-preserved castle in the region of Madrid, and offers visitors incredible views and tours rich with detail. Tours not only include costumed guides, but actors perform reenactments and dramatize life in the castle. It also hosts activities and exhibitions exploring culture, music, monarchy, and the technology of the day.
Alcazar of Toledo
The Alcazar of Toledo dates back to the 3rd century as a Roman palace, but is now inextricably linked with the Spanish Civil War and the Siege of the Alcazar. While the nationalist victory at the Alcazar may not have been militarily decisive, the Alcazar had remained an important symbol of the dominance of Spain (note how it towers over the surrounding landscape), and the victory inspired nationalists throughout the country. Today it remains an important site in Spanish history, and houses a library and military museum. A tour of the Alcazar gives in depth insights into the military and historic history of Spain.
Coca Castle
The Coca Castle in central Spain is the most breathtaking remaining example of Spanish Mudejar architecture, merging Moorish and Gothic design to create a distinctive castle unlike any other. Dating back to the 15thcentury, the Coca Castle was repaired and embellished through the 19th century, and then extensively repaired and renovated in the early 20th century. Today it is protected as a national monument, and houses a school of forestry, but many rooms are open for public tours, including the chapel, armory, and central keep. It is considered one of the best castles in Europe.
Castle of La Mota
The enormous castle of La Mota has held a pivotal place in the history of Spain since it was built in the 1400s. As a castle, it was the site of numerous sieges and battles as rival kings competed for power. Later it was converted into a prison, where it held many prominent prisoners, most notably Cesare Borgia, subject of Machiavelli’s The Prince. This remarkably preserved castle provides tours of the medieval walls, archaeological sites, formal gardens, and a Gothic chapel.
Batres Castle
The primary attraction in the small town of Batres is their beautiful little castle, built in the 15th century. The castle is most famous as the childhood home of renowned Spanish poet Garcilaso de la Vega, but the beautiful Renaissance details, fountains, and galleries have made it an increasingly popular site for weddings. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and a small moat, Batres castle is one of Madrid’s lesser-known treasures.
The complex and overlapping geographical, political, and military history of Spain have combined to create these remarkable, important buildings. Visiting a castle in Spain isn’t just something from a fairy tale, it’s an activity that is both fascinating and rewarding for locals and tourists alike.
Aulencia Castle
Perched atop the Horcajo hill, in the region of Villanueva de la Cañada, lies the remains of the Castillo de Aulencia. The architecture suggests that the castle was built during the time of the Moors and possibly by the Moors as well. It has been owned and used by the kings of Toledo, and the noble Gelo family. Castillo de Aulencia is privately owned, by the Ballesteros family so you its not possible to visit the castle up close.
