Castle of Xàtiva, Medieval castle in Xàtiva, Spain
Castle of Xàtiva comprises two connected fortifications, Castillo Menor and Castillo Mayor, stretching along a mountain ridge overlooking the Mediterranean coastal plains of Valencia Province. The complex includes gates, towers, casemates, and residential buildings spread across a large grounds.
The fortress developed at a strategic point on the Via Augusta, the Roman road connecting Cadiz to Rome across Spain's Mediterranean coast. Over centuries, it was rebuilt and reinforced by successive powers, explaining its complex form.
The walls display layers from different peoples, with Iberian foundations, Roman and Islamic structures, and Gothic Christian additions still visible today. Walking through the fortification reveals how each group left its mark on the construction.
The best way to get there is by train from Valencia to Xàtiva, then by local bus or taxi to the entrance. Visit early in the day to avoid heat and allow enough time to explore the large complex.
The castle served as a state prison for the Crown of Aragon, holding numerous nobles within its fortified walls. This role as a high-security prison remained important to its function for centuries.
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