Almodóvar del Río, municipality of Spain
Almodóvar del Río is a municipality in Córdoba Province sitting on a hill about 250 meters high near the Guadalquivir River. It features narrow streets with whitewashed buildings that climb steeply up the slopes, topped by a fortress that overlooks the surrounding landscape and valley.
The castle was built around 740 by Arabs and served as a key defensive stronghold protecting the region and river trade routes. In 1226, following the execution of the Muslim king, the fortress was surrendered to Christian forces under Ferdinand III, marking a major shift in regional control.
The name comes from Arabic and refers to the round shape of the hill where it stands. White-washed streets wind through the town, and locals gather in squares at cafes, maintaining daily rhythms that connect to centuries of community life here.
The town is best explored on foot since streets are narrow and steep; the castle at the top offers views and can be reached from the center. A visitor center near the entrance provides maps, information, and guidance on hiking trails including the Roman Baetica Route and Sierra Morena Trail nearby.
In the early 20th century, the castle underwent an elaborate restoration by a wealthy collector and adventurer known as the Count of Torralva and an architect, taking more than 36 years with over 800 workers involved. This long project kept the local economy active for decades, though neither man lived to see it fully completed.
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