This medieval fortress was built in the 13th century on top of a hill overlooking the town of La Iruela and the Guadalquivir River valley.
The castle is made up of two main parts: the tower and the enclosure. The tower, also known as the Torre del Homenaje, is the highest part of the castle and served as a watchtower and defensive stronghold. The enclosure, which is surrounded by walls and towers, served as a residence for the castle's inhabitants and provided additional defense.
One interesting fact about La Iruela Castle is that it played an important role in the Spanish Reconquista, a period of history when Christian armies reclaimed territory from Muslim rule. The castle was captured by the Christian forces led by King Ferdinand III of Castile in the 13th century, marking a significant victory in the Reconquista.
Another interesting fact is that the castle underwent significant renovations in the 18th century, during which time it was transformed into a fortified residence for the local nobility. The renovations included the addition of decorative elements such as frescoes and a chapel.
Today, La Iruela Castle is a popular tourist attraction and is open to visitors year-round. Visitors can explore the tower, the enclosure, and the various rooms and corridors of the castle, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside from the castle's ramparts.
After a recent restoration, an open-air theatre has been built on La Iruela castle enclosure. This theatre is a tribute to the Greek and Classic Eras and holds various artistic and cultural shows throughout the year.
