Walls of Olmedo, Medieval defensive walls in Olmedo, Spain
The Walls of Olmedo are medieval fortifications that encircle the town with stone barriers, featuring several gates and watchtowers positioned at regular intervals. They form a continuous defensive ring that clearly marks the former extent of the settlement.
The walls were built in the late 12th century to protect the town during a period of frequent territorial conflicts and military threats. They represent a crucial phase in medieval defensive architecture across the Iberian Peninsula.
The walls defined the town as a multi-community space in medieval times, with residents of different backgrounds living and working within their protection. Walking along them today, you sense the boundaries of a society that included Christians, Muslims, and Jews together for centuries.
You can view the walls year-round and walk along their full length to explore the medieval fortification structure. Information panels at various points explain key architectural details and the defensive purposes of the fortification.
The walls now serve as a test track boundary for high-speed trains, creating an unexpected link between medieval defense structures and modern railway technology. This collision of ancient stone fortifications with contemporary transportation reveals how Olmedo sits between centuries.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
