The medieval castles, those fascinating constructions that breathe history, give us in Seville more than one surprise. Walls, moats, stables and watchtowers have witnessed many battles, legends and memorable historical episodes. In Seville we have the famous castle of San Jorge, former seat of the Court of the Holy Inquisition, but if we drop by other corners of the province, the visitor will experience a journey through time.
After delighting us with the essential palaces, its secret passages and even places that do not seem to be in Seville, why not discover the fortifications that the province gives us?
Castle of Alcalá de Guadaira
It is one of the largest fortresses in the province of Seville and is located on the Cerro del Castillo, in the municipality of Alcala. The castle is the result of several superimpositions of different constructions from the XII, XIII and XIV centuries.
ℹ️ The castle is freely accessible and includes the entire walled enclosure of the ancient medieval village, the citadel of the Mocha Tower and the corachas. Winter opening hours (September – June), Tuesday to Friday from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm. Saturdays from 10:00 to 14:00 and from 16:00 to 18:00 hours. Sundays and holidays from 10:00 to 14:00 hours. Mondays closed. Summer hours (July – August), Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 12:00 and from 20:00 to 22:00 hours. Weekends closed
Marchenilla Castle
Also in the municipality of Alcalá is a walled fortress. At the end of the 13th century, the incursions of the Benimerines, who came from Ronda through the “Camino de Morón”, justified the creation of the fortification of Marchenilla as a small walled enclosure.
ℹ️ It opens its doors on Saturdays from 10:00 to 14:00 hours under previous reservation.
Aguzaderas Castle
Three kilometers from the town of El Coronil is the Aguzaderas Castle, a fortress built by the Muslims on the remains of such ancient times as the Celts and Iberians. One of the peculiarities of the fortress is that it is located in a valley, since its mission was to defend the spring of the source of Aguzaderas, and not to control the territory. It has been a National Monument since 1923.
ℹ️. Open enclosure.
Castle of Morón de la Frontera
The moment of glory of this castle was in the 11th century when Morón became a Taifa kingdom. In the 16th century it was used as the residence of several noble families. If you want to visit it, it is located on a hill in the town of Morón and although you can go up by car, the most normal way is on foot.
ℹ️. Open enclosure.
Morales Castle
It dates from the beginning of the 14th century. It has been restored several times and although it can be visited today, many parts belong to the municipality. The enclosure houses the flamenco club, the Municipal Library, a restaurant and even several houses of neighbors.
It is open to the public, although it has a cost of two euros for non-locals. Every year a medieval fair is held around the castle. The history of this castle could not be understood without the Sevillian poet Baltasar del Alcázar, who lived in the castle for 15 or 16 years between 1569 and 1584. He was appointed Mayor of the town and wrote many of his problems in the fortified enclosure.
ℹ️. Winter opening hours (October 1 – April 30): Tuesday to Friday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. Saturdays, Sundays and holidays by reservation here. Summer hours: Tuesday to Friday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. Weekday afternoons (call 603-717-748). Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays, reserve in advance here. General admission: 2€.
Old Alcazar of Estepa
This defensive fortress is from the Muslim period and the ruins are located at the highest point of the municipality, on the Cerro de San Cristobal. Unlike other similar constructions this castle has a triangular shape, but no rooms are preserved, except for the Torre del Homenaje.
ℹ️. The castle is open to the public. Hours: Saturday, Sundays and holidays. Advance reservations are essential at 669 952 276.
The Monclova Castle
The oldest remains of this castle date back to the 14th century and some rooms are still preserved. The enclosure has undergone numerous renovations to adapt it to modern comforts.
ℹ️. It is currently used mainly as a venue for weddings and other celebrations.