Castillo Palacio de los Condes de Oropesa, Medieval castle and palace in Jarandilla de la Vera, Spain.
Castillo Palacio de los Condes de Oropesa is a fortress and palace in Jarandilla de la Vera built with four towers, two square and two circular, arranged around a central courtyard. The courtyard features Gothic galleries and finely carved stone windows throughout its arcades.
This 15th-century fortress was built by the noble Oropesa family to serve as their stronghold. In 1556, Emperor Charles V stayed within its walls for three months while awaiting completion of his residence at Yuste Monastery nearby.
The entrance gate displays a double-headed eagle shield while the courtyard walls show heraldic emblems of the noble families Alvarez de Toledo and Figueroa. These symbols reflect the lineage and power of the families who occupied this seat for centuries.
The site now operates as a National Parador hotel providing guest accommodations in rooms furnished with period pieces and contemporary comforts. Visitors should note that some areas may be restricted to hotel residents.
The original entrance featured a drawbridge over a moat that connected to a system of defensive walls protecting the structure. This medieval defense network reveals how crucial controlling this position was for the ruling noble family.
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