Castillo de Don Juan Manuel, Cifuentes, Medieval castle in Cifuentes, Spain
Castillo de Don Juan Manuel is a fortified structure in Cifuentes featuring five towers of varying shapes and functions. The main tower displays an uncommon five-sided design, while corner towers stand as squared structures and a circular tower anchors the northern section.
Construction started in 1324 under the direction of Don Juan Manuel, a powerful nobleman of the period. The fortress was built as part of his defensive strategy for the territories under his control.
The castle received official recognition as a Bien de Interés Cultural, marking its status as a protected heritage site within Spanish architectural preservation guidelines.
Entry to the structure occurs through a pointed arch gateway in the western wall, which opens into a rectangular chamber beneath a pointed vault. The stone construction means interiors are compact, so plan your visit accordingly.
The five-sided shape of the main tower sets it apart from other fortifications of this period across Spain. This geometric choice was an innovative approach to defensive strategy in the early 14th century.
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