Castillo de Calatrava La Vieja

The Castillo de Calatrava La Vieja is situated on Ruta Virgen de la Encarnación in Carrión de Calatrava, Spain.

History

• Calatrava la Vieja was a medieval site and original nucleus of the Order of Calatrava. It was an important city during the High Middle Ages, guarding the roads to Cordova and Toledo.
• The site's name is derived from the Arab nobleman who held this area in the 8th century. References to the site date back to as early as 785.
• In 853, due to conflicts between the Muslims of Toledo and the emirate of Cordova, the site was partially destroyed but rebuilt later under al-Hakam, brother of Muhammad I.
• It became the capital of the region. At the fall of the Caliphate of Cordova, the Taifa kingdoms or republics of Seville, Cordova, and Toledo competed to acquire Calatrava.
• Toledo was conquered by Alfonso VI of Castile in 1085, and the Almoravids arrived in the Iberian Peninsula a year later.
• In 1147, Calatrava was conquered by Alfonso VII, becoming one of the farthest Christian outposts during this stage of the invasions.
• The castle was placed under the protection of the Knights Templar, but this proved unsatisfactory. Sancho III of Castile made an offer: he would grant the town and fortress of Calatrava to anyone who promised to defend it from the Moors.
• Encouraged by a friar named Diego Velásquez, Saint Raymond of Fitero took up the challenge.
• As a result of this success, Raymond decided to found the Order of Calatrava, organized along Cistercian lines.
• The city was reconquered by the Almohads in 1195, after their victory against Alfonso VIII at the Battle of Alarcos.
• They held it for 17 years, until 1212, when it was recovered as part of the campaign that resulted in the decisive Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa.
• In 1217, the Order of Calatrava moved to Calatrava la Nueva (castle of Dueñas), 60 km to the south.
• Thus, the original site became known as "Calatrava la Vieja" ("Old Calatrava").
• The castle remained the center of the royal land grant but was completely abandoned by the early fifteenth century.

Architecture

The architecture of the Castillo de Calatrava La Vieja is not well-preserved due to its abandonment and subsequent use as a quarry for building materials. However, remnants of the original structure can still be seen today.

Layout

The castle's layout is centered around a central keep, with surrounding walls and towers. The exact layout is unclear due to the passage of time and neglect.

Current Status and Use

Today, the Castillo de Calatrava La Vieja is part of the Archaeological Parks (Parques Arqueológicos) of the Community of Castile-La Mancha. Visitors can explore the site and learn about its rich history.

Heritage Status

The castle has been recognized as a historical site of importance, with many of its structures listed on the Spanish Heritage List.

Visiting Information

Visitors can access the castle through guided tours, which provide insight into its history and significance. The site is open to the public during certain hours and days of the week.

Notable Features and Rooms

Unfortunately, due to the passage of time and neglect, many of the castle's original features have been lost or destroyed. However, remnants of the central keep and surrounding walls can still be seen today.

The castle has a rich history, with many notable events taking place within its walls. Visitors can explore the site and learn about its significance in the medieval period.