Castle of the Christian Monarchs

The Castle of the Christian Monarchs is a medieval fortress with four square towers at its corners and thick defensive walls protecting interior spaces. Inside, rooms connect through garden-filled courtyards that divide the complex into distinct sections.

King Alfonso XI built the fortress in 1328 on earlier foundations that included Roman ruins and an earlier Islamic palace complex. It later became a royal residence for the Catholic Monarchs and underwent further modifications across several centuries.

The castle is named after the Catholic Monarchs who made it their royal residence during Spain's most transformative era. The garden courtyards show how Christian and Islamic design traditions merged in this region over centuries.

The fortress is within walking distance from the city center and sits near the Guadalquivir River. Comfortable shoes are recommended since the grounds include stone floors and staircases throughout.

Christopher Columbus met with the Catholic Monarchs within these walls to plan his Atlantic voyage. This meeting marked a pivotal moment that would reshape the course of European exploration.

Location: Córdoba

Accessibility: Wheelchair inaccessible

Address: C. Caballerizas Reales, s/n, Centro, 14004 Córdoba, Spain

Opening Hours: Tuesday-Friday 08:30-20:45; Saturday 08:30-16:30; Sunday 08:30-14:30

Phone: +34957485001

Website: https://alcazardelosreyescristianos.cordoba.es/?id=3

GPS coordinates: 37.87660,-4.78139

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:00