Architecture & Castles of the Reconquista

Explore the magnificent fortresses, palaces, and cathedrals built during 781 years of conflict and cultural exchange

Style:
Origin:
MUSLIMislamic

Alhambra

Granada, Spain

13th-14th century

The jewel of Islamic architecture in Spain, the Alhambra is a palace and fortress complex showcasing the pinnacle of Nasrid artistry and engineering.

Open to Visitors
BOTHmudéjar

Alcázar of Seville

Seville, Spain

10th-14th century

Originally an Islamic fortress, later transformed by Christian kings into a stunning Mudéjar palace combining Islamic and Gothic elements.

Open to Visitors
CHRISTIANmudéjar

Coca Castle

Coca, Segovia, Spain

15th century

One of the finest examples of Spanish Mudéjar military architecture, built of brick rather than stone with elaborate decorative elements.

Open to Visitors
MUSLIMislamic

Alcazaba of Málaga

Málaga, Spain

11th century

Palatial fortification built by the Hammudid dynasty, connected to Gibralfaro castle. One of the best-preserved Moorish fortresses.

Open to Visitors
CHRISTIANromanesque

Loarre Castle

Loarre, Huesca, Spain

11th century

Exceptionally well-preserved Romanesque fortress built during the Aragonese expansion. Military and religious complex combined.

Open to Visitors
CHRISTIANgothic

Alcázar of Segovia

Segovia, Spain

12th-16th century

Distinctive fairy-tale castle that served as fortress, royal palace, state prison, artillery school. Inspiration for Disney's Cinderella Castle.

Open to Visitors
CHRISTIANgothic

Burgos Cathedral

Burgos, Spain

13th-16th century

Gothic cathedral built during the height of the Reconquista, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Third largest cathedral in Spain.

Open to Visitors
MUSLIMislamic

Torre del Oro

Seville, Spain

13th century

Almohad watchtower on the Guadalquivir River, built to control access to Seville. Part of the city's defensive system.

Open to Visitors
CHRISTIANgothic

Royal Monastery of Guadalupe

Guadalupe, Cáceres, Spain

13th-15th century

Important pilgrimage site and monastery symbolizing the Reconquista. Associated with Columbus and the discovery of Americas.

Open to Visitors
MUSLIMislamic

La Giralda

Seville, Spain

12th century

Originally built as the minaret of the Great Mosque of Seville during Almohad rule. Converted to cathedral bell tower after Reconquista.

Open to Visitors
CHRISTIANromanesque

Walls of Ávila

Ávila, Spain

11th century

Best-preserved medieval walls in Spain, encircling the entire old city. Built to defend against Muslim raids.

Open to Visitors
CHRISTIANmilitary

Peñafiel Castle

Peñafiel, Valladolid, Spain

10th-15th century

Distinctive ship-shaped castle stretching 210 meters along a narrow ridge. Wine museum today.

Open to Visitors
12
Total Sites
7
Christian
4
Muslim
12
Visitable Today