Belalcázar Castle

Belalcázar, Spain

The castle-palace of Belalcázar is one of the most representative of the 15th century, when the nobility attempted to demonstrate its social and economic status.

Built entirely of stone blocks, Belalcazar preserves two enclosures: an outer barrier adapted to the irregularities of the land and reinforced with rectangular towers, and the inner rectangular castle-palace with eight towers, one at each corner and another in the center of each side. All eight towers are of average height except for the eastern and principal tower, which rises noticeably above the rest.

In the 15th century, some Renaissance construction was added to improve the accommodations of the palace, which were insufficient in the old principal tower.The castle was built by the magnate Gutierre de Sotomayor, grand master of Alcantara, with the benefices he earned from his various possessions. The castle later passed on to the houses of Benavente and Osuna. In 1811, during the War of Independence, French troops defended the castle against a siege by the duke of Wellington's British troops.The exterior of the fortress is almost entirely intact, but nothing remains of the interior structure.

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Founded: 15th century
Category: Castles and fortifications in Spain

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4.4/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

María Ascen (14 months ago)
Sotomayor family castle. Not accessible for people with reduced mobility or blindness due to the high and irregular steps. During the visit you climb 175 steps. I would also advise against it for children under 10 for the same reason. The hour and a half visit was made short with the explanations of Feliciano and Sergio. The views are spectacular from the Torre del Homenaje which is the highest of the castles in Spain.
Mamen Muriel Dueñas (18 months ago)
It is a fantastic visit, the castle has nothing inside, only the walls are preserved, but the keep is complete and restored. You can climb to the top, there are 175 steps in sections of about 30, they are spiral stairs, the first two sections are bad, steps with little tread and a lot of risers...then they are a little better...but there is a railing. The guides are fantastic, it is a very beautiful visit.
Alejandro Muñoz Illescas (2 years ago)
The visit that begins at the hostel is mandatory to enter the monument, but it is totally worth doing it, since it is a place full of history and complex to understand due to the damage it has suffered. Although it still needs a lot of rehabilitation, its walls, decorations and the great homage tower are worth seeing. You must wear comfortable shoes and water. Thanks to the guide Feliciano for his enthusiasm and affection for his land.
José Luis G (2 years ago)
I really liked the visit... There is little left of the castle... And the keep is fine... But the tour guide is remarkable, he knows a lot and told us about it with great emotion, you can see that he lives it and transmits it. So it is a highly recommended visit.
Juan Manuel Lopez Pazos (2 years ago)
Today I was able to visit the interior of the castle and it is wonderful. Note that the stairs to climb are difficult, but there are not many steps between each floor and you can rest during the ascent. Of course, it is advisable to wear comfortable shoes.
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