Castle of Zahara de la Sierra, Medieval fortress in Zahara de la Sierra, Spain
The Castle of Zahara de la Sierra sits on a mountain peak about 500 meters above the valley, defended by steep walls and towers that command views over the landscape below. The site includes various ruins of buildings, wells, and defensive structures that show how the medieval settlement was organized and used.
The fortress was originally built in the 8th century as a Moorish defensive outpost and remained under Arab control until the early 15th century. It played a key role in the conflicts between the Emirate of Granada and the Kingdom of Castile during the late Reconquista period.
The fortress held great importance for the people living in the area and shaped how the settlement developed below it. You can still see remains of homes, cisterns, and walls that reveal how the castle and village were deeply connected.
The walk up to the fortress takes about 15 minutes from the town square and passes through the old village gate with its stone archway. The terrain is uneven in places and can be slippery, so good footwear and careful steps are advisable.
Two narrow staircases lead from the main area to an upper terrace that looks out over the Grazalema mountains and a reservoir below. This highest vantage point was strategically chosen to watch over the surrounding lands and spot approaching threats.
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