Castle of Eljas

Eljas, Spain, Spain

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Castle of Eljas crowns a hilltop in the village of Eljas, Cáceres province, Extremadura, Spain, near the Portuguese border, serving as the historic headquarters of the Order of Alcántara's Encomienda Mayor during the medieval period.

Built in the 13th century with possible Islamic roots possibly tracing to the 9th century, it features a prominent 20-meter tower of homage, fortified walls with watchtowers, a central courtyard, and interior spaces like barracks and noble halls, all designed for frontier defense amid Spain-Portugal conflicts. 

Reformed in the 16th century but partially destroyed during the 17th-century Portuguese War of Restoration including occupation and sieges, it survives today as evocative ruins offering panoramic views, protected as cultural heritage.