Castle of La Mota, Medieval fortress in Medina del Campo, Spain
Castle of La Mota sits on a hilltop surrounded by four towers that protect a central courtyard. A large outer defensive wall made of red brick encircles the entire structure.
The fortress was built in 1080 in response to Moorish raids and underwent major reconstruction in the 15th century under the Catholic Monarchs. These changes reinforced its defensive capabilities and made it a symbol of royal authority.
The castle once served as a royal archive and later housed notable prisoners, reflecting its role as a place of power and control. Visitors can still see the spaces shaped by this history.
The site is best explored during daylight hours when the sun illuminates the red brick walls and shows architectural details clearly. Wear sturdy footwear because the grounds have uneven surfaces and stone paths.
One of the region's largest towers was the site of an attempted escape by imprisoned Cesare Borgia in the 16th century. This episode has made the castle memorable in local history.
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