Castillo de las Arguijuelas de Arriba

Castillo de las Arguijuelas de Arriba is a fortress with a square floor plan, a central courtyard, and four corner towers built in stone. The walls display traditional masonry work and the complex is surrounded by extensive gardens.

Construction began between 1513 and 1550 under Don Diego de Ovando de Cáceres, with architect Pedro de Larrea directing the work. The fortress resulted from a political marriage between two noble families of the region.

The main entrance displays coats of arms representing the marriage alliance that made construction possible. These heraldic symbols remain visible today and tell the story of the family connection behind this building.

The site features multiple rooms and outdoor areas with good pathways for exploration. Plan enough time for a full walk-through, as the complex spans a considerable area.

During the Spanish Civil War, the fortress served as a training center for German tank drivers under Colonel Wilhelm von Thoma. This unexpected 20th-century role is barely visible today but remains part of the site's history.

Location: Cáceres

GPS coordinates: 39.34606,-6.33314

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:06