Montgrí Castle, Gothic castle at Torroella de Montgrí, Spain.
Montgrí Castle is a Gothic fortress perched on a hilltop above Torroella de Montgrí, featuring four round towers and thick stone walls that dominate the terrain. The structure was designed as a military complex with defensive features typical of medieval warfare, including restricted passages and strategic vantage points.
The fortress was built in the late 13th century by King James II of Aragon to monitor the county of Empuriés and secure his authority in the region. Its construction took place during a period of power struggles between the Kingdom of Aragon and local nobility.
The fortress symbolized royal control over the Empordà region and remains a landmark that shapes how locals see their landscape. People in the area value it as a monument to their heritage and often visit it on foot for recreation.
The hike from Torroella de Montgrí follows a marked trail that climbs the hillside with varying slopes. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and bring plenty of water, as the route is exposed to sun with little shade at the top.
Within the castle's inner courtyard sits an underground cistern that collected rainwater, revealing how defenders managed water supply in this dry region. This system was crucial for residents who needed to sustain themselves during prolonged sieges.
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