Castillo de Berlanga de Duero, Medieval castle in Berlanga de Duero, Spain
Castillo de Berlanga de Duero is a medieval fortress built on a hilltop overlooking the Douro River valley, featuring stone walls, a central keep, and defensive ramparts. The structure displays the layout typical of a border stronghold, with thick fortifications and multiple towers positioned to command the valley below.
The fortress was built in the 15th century by the Tovar family, replacing an earlier Muslim fortification from the 10th century that had defended the region during territorial struggles. The later construction reveals how important this site remained for controlling the Douro valley.
The name reflects its role as a border stronghold between competing medieval powers in the region. Walking through the stone fortifications today shows how such structures shaped local life and defense strategies.
The castle is reachable on foot from central Berlanga de Duero, with information about tours available locally. Wear sturdy shoes as the hilltop site has steep slopes and uneven paths to navigate.
The fortress blends Spanish and Islamic building techniques using local stone, reflecting how multiple cultures influenced medieval construction methods in the region. This architectural mix becomes visible in the walls and towers, showing how building styles tell the story of conquest and coexistence.
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