Top 8 Castles around Almagro

The castles and historical sites around Almagro are deeply intertwined with Spain's medieval history, particularly the Reconquista and the powerful military orders. The region was a strategic crossroads, and sites like Carrión de Calatrava, home to the ruins of Calatrava la Vieja, served as the headquarters for the first Hispanic military order, the Order of Calatrava. Further south, Calatrava la Nueva Castle became the definitive seat of the Order, showcasing impressive Gothic architecture and offering a profound journey into the era of knightly orders.

Beyond the well-known Castillo de Doña Berenguela in Bolaños de Calatrava, you can explore the imposing ruins of Calatrava la Vieja near Carrión de Calatrava, which was the original headquarters of the Order of Calatrava. The Sacro Convento-Castillo de Calatrava la Nueva, located south of Almagro, is another magnificent castle-monastery that served as the Order's definitive seat. Additionally, the Clavería Palace in Aldea del Rey, a 16th-century Renaissance building, reflects the region's rich architectural heritage.

Yes, several sites are suitable for families. The Castillo de Doña Berenguela in Bolaños de Calatrava is family-friendly and hosts cultural programs. The archaeological park at Calatrava la Vieja near Carrión de Calatrava offers an engaging historical experience for all ages. Calatrava la Nueva Castle, with its vast grounds and impressive architecture, can also be an exciting visit for families, especially with guided tours that bring its history to life.

The region is known for its volcanic landscapes, part of the Campo de Calatrava volcanic area. From the elevated position of Calatrava la Nueva Castle, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the plains of Castilla-La Mancha. The View of Aldea and Castillo Ciruela also offers views overlooking the Jabalón Valley, highlighting the strategic importance of these fortresses within the natural terrain.

The area around Almagro offers various outdoor activities, especially hiking and cycling. You can find numerous routes that pass by or offer views of historical sites. For hiking, consider routes like the 'Ermita del Calvario – Virgen del Monte loop from Bolaños de Calatrava' or the 'Hermitage of San Pedro (Almagro) – Hermitage of San Juan loop from Almagro'. Cyclists can explore routes such as 'Presa de Jabalón — circular desde Almagro' or 'Bolaños, Torralba y Carrión de Calatrava — circular desde Almagro'. You can find more details and routes in the Hiking around Almagro and Cycling around Almagro guides.

To fully appreciate the historical significance and architectural grandeur of Calatrava la Nueva Castle, including its three walled enclosures, vaulted church, convent, and watchtower, it is recommended to allocate at least 2-3 hours. If you opt for a guided tour, which is highly recommended for a deeper understanding, your visit might extend longer.

The best time to visit the castles around Almagro is typically during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months. During these periods, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring outdoor sites and enjoying the panoramic views without the intense heat of summer or the chill of winter. The plains of Castilla-La Mancha can experience very hot summers.

While Almagro itself is well-connected, direct public transport to some of the more remote castle sites like Calatrava la Nueva Castle can be limited. It is often advisable to use a private vehicle or taxi for convenience, especially when visiting multiple sites. For sites closer to towns like Bolaños de Calatrava or Carrión de Calatrava, local bus services might be available, but schedules should be checked in advance.

While many medieval castles present accessibility challenges due to their historical construction, the town of Bolaños de Calatrava, which hosts the Castillo de Doña Berenguela, is listed as wheelchair accessible. However, specific accessibility within the castle itself may vary, so it's recommended to check with the site directly for detailed information regarding ramps, elevators, or accessible routes.

Parking availability varies by location. For castles situated within or near towns, such as the Castillo de Doña Berenguela in Bolaños de Calatrava, you can usually find parking within the town itself. For more remote sites like Calatrava la Nueva Castle, dedicated parking areas are typically provided near the entrance. It's always a good idea to check specific site information before your visit.

The Clavería Palace in Aldea del Rey is a significant Renaissance building. While it is an important historical monument, it has unfortunately been in a critical state of neglect and is currently undergoing rehabilitation. Access for visitors may be restricted depending on the ongoing restoration work, so it's advisable to check its current status before planning a visit.