Castillo de Bury Al-Hammam

About

Declared a National Monument in 1931, Burgalimar Castle is a 10th-century fortress built on a small hill, dominating the surrounding landscape and the town of Baños de la Encina. The castle is of a rather sober appearance, comprised of an oval-shaped perimeter dotted with fourteen square towers of Caliphate style. A 15th Christian Tribute Tower was added in the 15th century, built in a notably different architectural style from the rest of the structure. The castle was established in an important and strategic location, marking the entrance of the Guadalquivir valley and of Andalusia, and later became an object of much contention between Muslims and Christians in the 11th century. Travellers in the area should not miss the chance to experience what is considered by many to be the most well-preserved fortified complex of the Caliphate of Cordoba.