Castle of Irulegi, Medieval fortress in Laquidáin, Spain.
Castle of Irulegi is a medieval fortress perched on a mountain summit in Navarre, defined by massive stone walls and strategic observation points. From this elevated position, one could survey and monitor the entire surrounding territory.
The fortress first appears in written records in 1276, but was demolished in 1494 on orders of Queen Catalina I due to political unrest. This act marked the end of its role as a regional defense structure.
The site served as an important settlement across multiple eras, with archaeological finds spanning from the Bronze Age through the Iron Age. The hand of Irulegi, a mysterious stone artifact uncovered in 2021, raises questions about the early inhabitants and their practices.
The site is accessible via marked hiking trails that begin from Laquidáin and lead to the ruins. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear as the path crosses stony terrain with some steep sections.
The site was part of an early communication system where multiple fortresses in the region could signal each other using light and quickly relay dangers. This network of watchtowers helped the Kingdom of Pamplona detect threats well in advance.
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