Castillo de Salvatierra de los Barros

Castillo de Salvatierra de los Barros is a medieval fortress sitting on a rocky hilltop roughly 650 meters above sea level, featuring multiple defensive enclosures with semi-cylindrical towers. The massive walls form a system of layered fortifications that create a strong defensive line.

The fortress was built in stone by Juan Pacheco during the 15th century and stands as a product of that era's military design. In 1461 it passed to the Order of Alcantara through a town exchange, marking its shift into religious military hands.

The fortress carries a name rooted in salvation and protection, reflecting medieval hopes for safety behind its strong walls. Visitors can still sense the religious connection through the nearby chapel, which shows how faith and defense were deeply intertwined in that era.

The site sits in a rural setting, so it is important to prepare beforehand and plan for a sturdy walk up the hillside. The best time to visit is outside the hottest summer months, when conditions are more pleasant and exploring the fortress becomes more comfortable.

The eastern section contains a keep protected by a second stronghold with a barbican, a design where defenders positioned themselves in overlapping layers. This arrangement was particularly clever for its time, allowing defenders to attack invaders from multiple angles.