Castell del Riu

Spain, Spain

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Castell del Riu, known as Castillo del Río, is a 12th-13th century Islamic fortified enclosure located about 3 km from Aspe in Alicante province, Valencian Community, Spain, positioned strategically near the Vinalopó River.

Built during the Almohad period to defend the river valley's agricultural lands and communication routes against Christian advances, it features typical Muslim rammed earth construction with a main square Torre de Homenaje tower, later adapted by Christian conquerors after its capture around 1245.

Now in ruins amid scenic countryside, it forms part of Alicante's Ruta de los Castillos, offering insights into medieval frontier conflicts between Castile and Aragon kingdoms.