Castle of Montesa

Castle of Montesa is a fortress built in the Gothic style with features characteristic of Valencian construction techniques. The complex consists of defensive walls surrounding a rectangular cloister, a church with pointed barrel vaulting, and remains of auxiliary buildings arranged for communal living.

The castle was founded after the Knights Templar were dissolved in 1317, when Pope John XXII and King James II established the Order of Montesa as a successor organization. This new military-religious order developed the fortress as a major stronghold for their activities.

The layout reflects how a military-monastic order lived and worked together in one fortified space. The remains of communal rooms like the chapter house show how daily life was organized around religious and defensive duties.

Visit during daylight hours to see the ruins and architectural details clearly. Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain is uneven and some areas remain partially unstable or partially covered with debris.

Powerful earthquakes in 1748 and 1755 caused extensive damage that led to the castle being abandoned. These seismic events left visible marks on the structure and changed its fate from active fortress to archaeological remains.

Location: Montesa

Inception: 14 century

Architectural style: Valencian Gothic

Website: http://montesa.es/es/content/castillo-de-montesa

GPS coordinates: 38.95154,-0.65257

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:46