Castillo de los Cornel, Medieval fortress in Alfajarín, Spain.
Castillo de los Cornel is a fortress positioned on a rocky outcrop of the Montes Blancos, featuring a pentagonal layout measuring roughly 100 by 60 meters. Its main entrance is framed by two defensive towers with pointed arches that once held a drawbridge.
The fortress was built by Muslims in the 11th century and changed hands multiple times between Islamic and Christian forces until its final conquest in 1141. After that point, it became an important position for Christian control in the region.
The castle takes its name from the Cornel barony, which held it from the late 13th to late 14th century. The place remains a reminder of how local nobility shaped control over this land during the medieval period.
Access to the fortress is through the main entrance framed by the two towers, which serves as the natural orientation point. Since the site sits on a rocky hill, visitors should expect uneven terrain and bring appropriate footwear.
The homage tower from the 14th century was constructed using brick-covered rammed earth and blends military design elements from both Islamic and Christian traditions. This fusion of techniques and styles makes it a rare example of how both cultures left their mark on the structure.
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