The vast majority of the castles in the Iberian Peninsula were built as military and strategic posts to defend access areas of great importance. This is the case of the town of Almansa, in Albacete, which controls one of the 17 natural passes that the peninsula has. This is known as the Almansa corridor, which joins the Meseta and the Levante area.
This strategic location has led to numerous battles of great importance being fought in the area, such as the one that took place in 1707 during the War of the Spanish Succession. The defense of this territory of vital importance has given the town its spectacular castle , a huge building on top of a hill that dominates the entire municipality.
The castle of Almansa
This impressive fortress is located on the so-called Cerro del Águila , and as the book 101 Even More Surprising Destinations in Spain (Anaya) explains, it is traditionally stated that its original construction was Almohad. In fact, some mud walls and the remains of a tower corresponding to the 10th century are still preserved , so its construction can be dated to this period.
However, recent excavations carried out in the parade ground (2016-2019) have shown that the current building was built in two construction stages. These were made after the Christian conquest, one in the 14th century and the definitive one in the 15th.
On the other hand, in 1911 the mayor of Almansa denounced the dilapidated state of the castle , demanding its demolition. However, the reports made by the Royal Academy of History and the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando not only saved it, but it was declared a National Historic-Artistic Monument in 1921.
Castillo de Almansa, in Albacete.
The Battle of Almanza
As mentioned above, Almansa is located at a very important strategic and military point within the Spanish geography. Thus, it has been the target and site of numerous disputes, the most important being the one that occurred in 1707 , during the War of Spanish Succession .
In it, the House of Bourbon faced the House of Habsburg for the transfer of the throne. This battle marked the final direction of the war, placing the Bourbons as winners, being decisive for the establishment of their dynasty.
How can you visit?
Access to the fortress is at the local tourist office , but the visit to its interior begins at the Puerta de Poniente, which houses an impressive machicolation. From here you can reach the parade ground, with a museum that surrounds the archaeological zone.
To enjoy the palatial area and the beautiful homage tower , you must climb some stairs. The latter was ordered to be built in the 15th century by the Marquis of Villena and it is also recommended to climb to the top of the castle, from where the views of the city are impressive.
Almansa Castle, in Albacete.
Hours and prices
The price to access this ensemble is €4.50 for general admission and €3.50 for reduced admission . The latter is only for those who have a student card, youth card, for retirees, the disabled, large families and children over 5 years of age. In addition, admission is free for children under 5 years of age . From the Almansa tourist office they point out that tickets can be obtained at the castle box office or online .
For its part, the castle is open every day from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. However, from October 17 it will be closed on Mondays . In addition, the last access to the fortress will be 45 minutes before closing time.
How to get
Albacete is located 75 kilometers from Almansa, with a private vehicle journey time of approximately 50 minutes on the A-31 road. For its part, from Alicante , the estimated duration of the trip is 1 hour and 5 minutes on the same road.
