Azenhas Do Mar

Although many visitors flock to Spain for sun and fun, it also has many important cultural and historical attractions. During the middle ages, Spain built many castles to protect its borders from invasion. Other castles served as Moorish fortresses and palaces during the centuries-long Islamic rule of Spain. Although some of these castles are little more than ruins, others have been renovated and restored to their former glory. Modern-day castles, many built within the past 20 to 30 years hold concerts and other cultural events, or even allow you to go back in time to the days of knights and chivalry.

Castle Bil Bil in Benalmadena
Due to its dramatic location on the Benaldmadena beach, many visitors notice the reddish-colored walls and Moorish arches of Castle Bil Bil. The Arabic-style building was constructed in 1934 as a private home. Today it serves as a cultural center for the Benalmadena area. The interior is beautifully decorated with ornate tiles and carvings, and the property is surrounded by manicured tropical gardens. While in Benalmadena, check out Colomares castle, a medieval-looking castle built in the 1980s as a tribute to Christopher Columbus and his discovery of America.

Castillo San Miguel, near Costa Adeje
This modern castle, located close to many popular Costa Adege hotels, is a 6,000 square meter medieval reproduction castle complete with turrets. The castle hosts a regular dinner show with jousting and other tournament games, and a medieval banquet of roasted chicken, soup, desserts and drinks. Afterward, you can retire to the castle’s ballroom where you can enjoy dancing, music, acrobatics or other types of entertainment.

Alcazar of Segovia
Perched on the edge of a rocky cliff, this castle was designed to protect against Moorish invaders. Today, the 12th century building is widely acknowledged as one of the most beautiful castles in Spain. With a stunning, fairytale-ish design strikingly similar to Cinderella’s castle in Disneyworld, the Alcazar is a UNESCO world heritage site. Guided tours of the castle, which was recently restored, delve into its history as a royal residence, and even a Spanish prison. After visiting the Alcazar, book a stay in one of the nearby Spain hotels so you can explore Segovia. With its Roman aqueduct and breathtaking location near the Guadarrama mountains, many visitors consider Segovia one of the most beautiful cities in Spain.

Alhambra, Granada
The Alhambra, one of Spain’s top tourist attractions, is a 14th century Moorish palace and fortress that sits on top of a hill overlooking the city of Granada. Since it was constructed under Muslim rule, the architectural style is quite different from other castles of the same time period located throughout Spain and Europe. The interior boasts breathtaking tile work, ornate calligraphy, as well as many beautiful fountains and courtyards.