Castelo de Castro Caldelas, Medieval castle in Castro Caldelas, Spain
Castelo de Castro Caldelas is a castle standing on elevated terrain above the Tierras de Caldelas region, dominating the valley below. The structure features a polygonal layout with two main towers, including a keep and clock tower, enclosed by double defensive walls.
Pedro Fernández de Castro began construction between 1336 and 1343 after receiving the lands from King Alfonso IX of León. This stronghold became a key seat of power in the region and shaped the landscape for centuries to come.
The castle now houses a cultural center where visitors find a library, exhibition space, and ethnographic museum that reflect local life and traditions. These rooms show how the fortress transformed into a place where people gather to learn and share stories about the region.
The location sits on elevated ground with expansive views across the surrounding area, making it easy to get oriented and explore the grounds. Visitors should be prepared for the physical effort of climbing uphill and the exposed position where weather can change quickly.
Around 1560 the castle shifted from being purely a military fortress to serving as a residential complex, reflecting the social changes of the Renaissance. This transformation shows how such structures adapted as warfare evolved and peacetime became more common.
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