Castillo de los Vélez was built in 1524 on the ruins of an older castle from which some remains are visible. The castle was ordered by Mister Pedro Fajardo (Marquis of Vélez) to Luis Fajardo to ensure submission of the town of Mula, which was up in arms against the Marquis. This castle of Renaissance style and simple lines was created as a defense structure.
The castle, built on a rocky outcrop, has one single nave with vault, a tribute tower, a tanks and an annex. Inside there is little decoration, with rough, functional lines. The only ornamental pieces are eight shields of the Fajardo and Silva families. There are beautiful views of the Mula river from the North side and of the entire town from the lower terrace. The tribute tower was accessed via a rising footbridge later replaced by a fixed bridge. In case of invasion, the soldiers went to the tower, where a tank ensured water supply.
From the high part of the town, where the Royal Encarnación Monastery is located, the Albacar trail leads to the Castle. You can also go by car taking the road to Caravaca. Right after exiting the town, there are indications for the castle. Follow them all the way to the Castle base.
References:Stobi was an ancient town of Paeonia located near Gradsko. It is considered by many to be the most famous archaeological site in North Macedonia. Stobi was built where the Erigon (Crna River) joins the Axios (Vardar), making it strategically important as a center for both trade and warfare.
Stobi developed from a Paeonian settlement established in the Archaic period. It is believed that in 217 BCE, Philip V annexed Paionia during his campaign against the Dardani who had entered Bylazora, the largest Paeonian town.
The city was first mentioned in writing by the historian Livy, in connection with a victory of Philip V of Macedon over the Dardani in 197 BC. In 168 BC, the Romans defeated Perseus and Macedonia was divided into four nominally independent republics. In 148 BC, the four areas of Macedonia were brought together in a unified Roman province. In the reign of Augustus the city grew in size and population.