Peñíscola, Fortified coastal town in Costa del Azahar, Spain.
Peñíscola is a municipality on the Mediterranean coast of Castellón province, rising from a rocky headland joined to the mainland by a narrow sand strip. The old town sits on the rock and is crowned by a castle complex, while newer districts and two long sandy beaches spread at the base of the hill.
The Templars built the castle at the end of the 13th century on the foundations of a Moorish fortress. Later it served as residence for a pope during the church schism and was expanded with new fortifications in the 16th century.
The name comes from the Latin word for peninsula and describes how this place sits on a rock surrounded by water. Visitors notice the white houses with blue details and narrow lanes where fishermen mend their nets while locals chat outside their doors.
The old town sits on a steep rock and can only be reached on foot via stairs and narrow lanes, so comfortable shoes are advisable. The beaches lie on the mainland and are easily accessible, while the harbor and promenade run between both areas.
The wetlands at the edge of the municipality shelter water birds and rare plants found in only a few spots along this coast. This area forms a quiet contrast to the busy beach and is valued by birdwatchers.
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