Almansa Castle

Phone: 967344771 / 967311259 (Oficina Turismo)

Email: turismoalmansa@hotmail.com

Website: www.almansa.es/

Location

In the highest part of the city.

Type of monument

Forts

History

Juan Manuel built his fortress over the site of an older fort in the 14th century, we are told by documents published by Aurelio Pretel. In one such document, from 1338, about the use of water in Alpera, various payments are established, destined all or in part "for the castle of Almansa" or "for the walls of the castle of Almansa".

Later, in 1346, when don Juan Manuel concedes irrigations and the corresponding water sources from his possessions to the Council of Almansa, he asks in return "that you give me, [...] to help with the labours of my castle here in Almansa, three thousand maravedís [...] And that [...] you give them to Ruy Martinez, my servant and your neighbour who must gather them for the said works on the said castle..."

Comparing both texts, it could be that the first references are to the previously existing fortifications and after 1346, work on a new castle was begun. The current aspect belongs to the era of don Juan Pacheco, Marquis of Villena, whose coat of arms appears in the keystones of the vaults in its keep.

Period

14th Century.

Art style

Gothic.

How to get there

Road transport

Almansa Castle is made up of two stepped enclosures, both defended by semicircular towers y crenelated walls.

The castle’s lower enclosure of the castle has two entrances; one on the west side, for access by foot or on horseback through its imposing embrasure, which is the one currently in use. Continuing the tour you arrive at what is now the parade ground, crossing this you find the east door which provided access for carts and carriages.

From the patio, a steep staircase, brings you up to the second enclosure, with the Keep rising majestically from its centre. It is a large square tower with masonry and ashlar work. Of the two original stories only the lower one remains. The vault, is a covered interior of Gothic crosspieces, with stone ribs and elements of brick. The coat of arms of Juan Pacheco, Marquis of Villena appear in the keystone.


In the upper part of the tower there is a crenelated terrace, accessed by a spiral staircase carved into the rock with stonework details, considered a marvel of the region’s gothic treasures.