The 6 Most Important Gothic Castles in Castilla and León

The various castles that we find throughout the Spanish geography are a clear and distinctive part of our history and our roots. Today we discuss six out of the ten Gothic castles of Castile and León that will transport us back to the Middle Ages. Are you coming with us?

Castle of La Triste Condesa (Ávila)

Let’s go to Arenas de San Pedro in order to get to know the oldest building from the locality, which can be traced back to the 14th century. This castle preserves the structure thanks to the conservation work: the court of arms, the kitchen, the dungeons, and most of the decorations. Do not miss its magnificent watchtower, which is used as a museum, an exhibition room and a conference room.

Castillos góticos de castilla y león
Castillo de La Triste Condesa

Torre del Clavero (Salamanca)

In the historic center of Salamanca this magnificent fortress that was part of the 15th century palace of Don Francisco de Sotomayor can be found. Its name is from the aforementioned figure, since it was the Clavero Mayor of the order of Alcántara, who carried the nails of the Cross of Jesus Christ in the processions. You will marvel at its imposing octagonal tower and the various decorative elements and turrets that crown it.

Castillos góticos de castilla y león
Torre del Clavero

Castle of Cuéllar (Segovia)

Also known as the Castle of the Dukes of Alburquerque, this monument, which dates from the 14th century, stands out for its lasting architecture and imposing structure. Historically, it has had several functions, from a headquarters to a sanatorium for the disease tuberculosis. Now it is a secondary school and offers dramatized visits to give life to its history.

Castillos góticos de castilla y león
Castillo de Cuéllar

Castle of Peñafiel (Valladolid)

Since the 15th century, this castle towers over the town of Peñafiel,  its height serving as protection and vigilance for its citizens. It has elongated floors, built for the terrain, and it is accessible from a particular door, with towers that rises 34 meters in the center of the fortification, from where you can enjoy a breathtaking views of the surrounding area. It currently houses the Provincial Wine Museum, which receives more than 100,000 visits per year.

Castillos góticos de castilla y león
Castillo de Peñafiel

Castle of Ampudia (Palencia)

Known as one of the most beautiful palace-castles in the region, this huge building preserves the architectonic and military elements from its original construction in the 15th century. On its facade you can see features of what would be called facade-Renaissance architecture, something considered innovative at the time. Currently, two-hour tours are offered to discover all the secrets of this castle. Without a doubt, it is one of the most beautiful Gothic castles of Castilla and León.

Castillos góticos de castilla y león
Castillo de Ampudia

Castle of Ponferrada (León)

The last castle we are showing you today was built by the Templars. This amazing work is still preserved, including the typical elements of a castle: its moat, its watchtower, its court of arms… Nowadays it houses the Templar Libary and Ponferrada‘s Center for Historical Studies.

Castillos góticos de castilla y león
Castillo de Ponferrada

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