Frias Castle, Medieval fortress in Frías, Spain
Frias Castle is a medieval fortress on a limestone outcrop called La Muela, positioned above the Tobalina Valley and the Ebro River passage. Inside lies a square courtyard with a water cistern, reached through a drawbridge and defensive gatehouse system.
The fortress gained military importance in 1201 when King Alfonso VIII acquired it as the primary territorial control point. It replaced Petralata Castle in this strategic role for the region.
The residential chambers display Romanesque capitals from the 12th and 13th centuries, decorated with sculptures of knights and mythological figures. These carved stones show the level of craftsmanship that existed in this space.
Access is through a drawbridge as the first defensive element, then via a fortified gatehouse. Wear sturdy shoes, as the climb to the La Muela outcrop is steep and the paths can be uneven.
The polygonal keep tower was built independently from the main structure and has experienced multiple documented collapses throughout history. These repeated failures reflect the extreme conditions the structure endures on its exposed hilltop location.
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