Castillo de Marchenilla

Castillo de Marchenilla is a medieval fortress with a square foundation and corner towers at each angle. Watchtowers rise from the center of each wall, and a tall rectangular keep dominates the entire structure.

The fortress was built in the late 1200s to defend against Marinid attacks from North Africa. It later became a key holding within the Gandul and Marchenilla domain under local nobility.

The chapel dedicated to San Isidro Labrador contains religious artwork from the 17th century that reflects the spiritual role the fortress held. This sacred space shows how faith and defense were intertwined within the walls.

The entrance is on the southern side through a narrow doorway that opens into the interior spaces. Inside you will find rooms with stone vaults and open areas that show how the fortress was used for both defense and daily living.

The keep may be a remnant of Calachibencarro, the original boundary marker referenced in a royal privilege issued by King Alfonso X. This connection links the tower to the region's earliest border arrangements.