Castle of Zafra

Castle of Zafra sits on a sandstone outcrop at roughly 1,400 meters elevation, with defensive walls rising directly from the natural rock formation. The structure contains various architectural elements and overlooks a landscape that can be seen from a designated viewpoint.

The fortress was originally built by Moors in the 11th century and changed hands in 1129 during the Reconquista when Christian forces from the north took control. This transition was part of the broader religious and political reshaping of the region.

The fortress displays architectural features from multiple periods, including a Gothic doorway with pointed arches and a preserved water cistern in the parade grounds. These elements show how later inhabitants expanded and adapted the original structure.

The fortress can be viewed from the exterior and from a marked viewpoint, while the interior remains closed due to ongoing restoration work. From these vantage points, you can observe the structure and the surrounding mountainous landscape clearly.

The fortress structure presents an architectural puzzle, as the limited interior space suggests the existence of hidden caves carved into the rock foundation. These underground spaces may have served for storage or shelter during sieges.

Location: Zafra

GPS coordinates: 38.42416,-6.41671

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:50