Castle of Xàtiva
Valenciana, Comunidad
The Castle of Xàtiva, known locally as Castell de Xàtiva, is a remarkable double fortress perched on the Sierra Vernisa overlooking the historic town of Xàtiva in Valencia, Spain. This unique fortress comprises two main parts: the smaller castle (Castillo Menor) and the larger castle (Castillo Mayor), connected and strategically positioned on elevated terrain. Its origins trace back to an Iberian construction, later expanded by the Romans and significantly remodeled by the Arabs, who fortified its walls to their current extent. Architecturally, it is a fine example of Valencian Gothic style. Throughout history, the castle served not only as a defensive stronghold but also as a State prison for the Crown of Aragon, holding notable prisoners such as royal infantes and nobles. Its strategic importance stemmed from Xàtiva's position as the natural entry point from the Kingdom of Castile, making it a key military and political site. Despite its formidable defenses, the castle suffered considerable damage during the War of the Spanish Succession, particularly from artillery bombardment in the early 18th century. Later, it saw use during the Spanish War of Independence but gradually fell into decline following a devastating earthquake in 1748. Today, the castle stands as a symbol of Xàtiva's rich past and architectural heritage, offering panoramic views and a tangible connection to the region's layered history.
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Tip: Visit during spring or autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Wear comfortable shoes as the site involves uphill walking and uneven terrain.
Zajímavosti
- •The castle is represented on the coat of arms of Xàtiva, featuring a central tower with two walled arms ending in castles, symbolizing the two parts of the fortress.
- •It was considered one of the most impregnable fortresses in the Crown of Aragon and the entire Iberian Peninsula during its prime.
- •The castle housed famous prisoners including Alfonso and Fernando de la Cerda, grandsons of Alfonso X the Wise, and Jaime de Aragón, Count of Urgel.
- •A tower named 'Garita Basset' honors General Juan Bautista Basset, who reinforced the castle’s defenses during the War of the Spanish Succession.
- •Despite heavy bombardments in 1707, the castle’s elevated position prevented attackers from reaching it directly, forcing them to bombard it from a distance.
Historie
The Castle of Xàtiva originated as an Iberian fortress utilizing one of the highest mountain points (Castillo Menor).
The Romans added a second fortress (Castillo Mayor) on another peak, connecting both.
Arabs later expanded and fortified the walls extensively.
After the Christian conquest by Jaime I, it served as a State prison for the Crown of Aragon.
The castle was considered one of the strongest fortresses in the Crown, playing a vital role in regional control.
Its decline began during the War of the Spanish Succession when modern artillery damaged its defenses.
It was later used during the Spanish War of Independence but suffered further damage from a significant earthquake in 1748, leading to its gradual decay.
Průvodce po místě
Castillo Menor (Smaller Castle)Iberian period (pre-Roman)
The original Iberian fortress located on one of the highest points of the mountain, forming the western part of the double fortress. It served as the initial defensive structure and was later integrated into the larger complex.
Castillo Mayor (Larger Castle)Roman period
Constructed by the Romans on a second elevated point of the mountain, this fortress was connected to Castillo Menor, forming a formidable double castle complex. It was later expanded and fortified by the Arabs and Christian rulers.
Walls and FortificationsMedieval period with Arab expansions
The extensive walls surrounding the castle and city were expanded by the Arabs to their current extent. These included multiple defensive layers that attackers had to overcome, making the fortress nearly impregnable in conventional warfare.
Garita Basset TowerEarly 18th century
A tower named after General Juan Bautista Basset, who reinforced the castle’s defenses during the War of the Spanish Succession. It symbolizes the last major military effort to defend the fortress before its decline.
Kontakt
Telefon: 962 28 37 87