Castell d'Ali Maimo, Medieval castle in Olocau and Marines, Valencia, Spain
Castell d'Ali Maimo is a medieval fortress located between Olocau and Marines in the province of Valencia, built to command views of the surrounding hills. The castle features two overlapping defensive enclosures with visible stone walls and ruins that cling to the rocky hillside.
The fortress is documented in 11th century written accounts and served as a key defense point during King James I's conquest campaign. It held out longer than most strongholds in the region before surrendering, symbolizing the final shift from Muslim to Christian rule in Valencia.
The castle received the designation of Cultural Heritage Asset, recognizing its importance in preserving Valencia's medieval military architecture.
Visitors can reach the ruins by following Camino del Castillo, a local hiking path that leads up to the fortress remains. The climb is steep and can be muddy after rain, so sturdy shoes are advisable for exploring the site safely.
The name Ali Maimo points to the fortress's Islamic past and may refer to a local leader or owner from before the Christian conquest. This detail is rarely emphasized, yet it reveals how the region was once home to multiple communities whose names and legacies still mark the landscape today.
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