Castle of Torija

Castle of Torija is a medieval fortress in central Spain with a rectangular layout, three round towers, and a dominant square keep constructed from limestone blocks. The walls and towers clearly show the military design typical of fortifications from this period.

The Knights Templar built this fortress in the 11th century to control the border region between Aragon and Castile. It served as a key strategic stronghold during the conflicts that shaped medieval Spain.

The castle now houses exhibits about writer Camilo José Cela's journey through the Alcarria region, which he documented in his book. The space functions as a cultural hub where visitors learn about local traditions and the literary history tied to this area.

The fortress sits roughly 80 kilometers from Madrid and welcomes visitors Tuesday through Sunday, with extended hours on weekends. It is most easily reached by car via the A-2 highway that connects the capital to the region.

The original walls show unusually thin construction because they were built before artillery became widespread in warfare. This makes it a rare example of a fortress not designed to withstand cannon fire.