Castle Ayora

Spain, Spain

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Castle Ayora, located in the town of Ayora in Valencia, Spain, at 552 meters above sea level, originated as a Muslim structure mentioned by geographer Muhammad al-Idrisi in the 12th century and was rebuilt in the mid-13th century after the Reconquista by Aragonese forces between 1239 and 1243.

Its control shifted through treaties like Almizra in 1244 to Castile, Campillo in 1281 back to Aragon, and Elche in 1305 confirming it within the Kingdom of Valencia. The castle featured a four-story residence-palace, a dominant four-sided keep, two strongholds including the Plaza de Armas with pebble pavement, high ramparts, cisterns, and remnants of Muslim rammed earth, but fell into ruins after Philip V's troops looted and burned it in 1707 during the War of the Spanish Succession, with further damage by French forces in 1812.

Today, visitors can explore its impressive ruins, panoramic views, remaining towers, the 16th-century Puerta Falsa with the Marchioness of Cenete's coat of arms, walls, and moats, making it a highlight for history enthusiasts.