Sora Castle, Medieval fortress in Castejón de Valdejasa, Spain
Sora Castle stretches roughly one hundred meters along an elongated hilltop with surviving defensive walls, arrow slits, and a square watchtower. The structure sits on private land about 6 kilometers northwest of Castejón de Valdejasa and is accessible via a maintained dirt road from town.
The fortress was built in the 9th century during the Upper March period of Al-Andalus, controlling the Roman road between Zaragoza and Pamplona. The main tower received later renovation in the 16th century by the Duke of Villahermosa, marking shifts in military control across different rulers.
The architecture shows a blend of Islamic defensive elements alongside Christian modifications added over centuries of occupation. Visitors can still see these different building phases in the surviving walls today.
The site sits on private property, so visitors should obtain permission beforehand or view it from a distance. The dirt road can become difficult after rain, so check local conditions before heading out.
The homage tower underwent renovation in the 16th century by the Duke of Villahermosa and represented one of the last Renaissance military structures in Aragon. This late adaptation shows how ancient fortresses were still being reshaped long after their original construction.
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