Castle Calatravo, Medieval castle in Alcañiz, Spain
Castle Calatravo sits on Pui-Pinos Hill and blends architectural styles from different periods into a single fortress. The structure includes a Romanesque chapel, a Gothic keep, and a Renaissance palace, each with distinctive features from their respective eras.
The Calatrava Order received this fortress in 1179 from King Alfonso II of Aragon as a base for their military operations. The castle later changed hands and eventually became what it is today after centuries of different uses.
The walls display Gothic murals from the 14th century showing scenes from King James I's life and religious stories in a regional artistic style. These paintings reflect the artistic traditions that developed in this part of Spain during the medieval period.
The castle operates as a hotel since 1968 and welcomes visitors who want to explore inside. Plan ahead if you want to visit or stay, as guided tours and rooms need to be arranged in advance.
The chapel holds an alabaster tomb of Juan de Lanuza carved by sculptor Damián Forment. This work showcases the style of Aragonese Renaissance funerary art and represents the artistic skill of that period.
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