Castillo de Olvera facts for kids
The Castillo de Olvera is an old castle found in the town of Olvera. This town is in the province of Cádiz, in southern Spain. The castle was built a long, long time ago, near the end of the 1100s. It was part of a strong defense system. This system protected the area known as the Emirate of Granada back then.
The castle sits high up on a rock. This rock is about 623 meters (2,044 feet) above sea level. It is the highest point in Olvera town. The castle's shape is a bit unusual. It looks like a long, skinny triangle. This shape perfectly fits the rock it was built on. In 1982, the castle was officially named a Bien de Interés Cultural. This means it is a very important historical monument.
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Discovering Olvera Castle
The Castillo de Olvera is more than just an old building. It is a symbol of history and strength. It tells stories of ancient times. This castle was built to protect the people and their land. It stands as a reminder of past kingdoms.
Where is Olvera Castle?
The castle is located in the beautiful region of Andalusia. This is in southern Spain. It is part of the "Route of the White Villages." These villages are famous for their whitewashed houses. Olvera itself is a charming town. It is known for its stunning views. The castle adds to its unique beauty.
Why Was This Castle Built?
The Castillo de Olvera was built for defense. It was a key part of a network of castles. These castles protected the borders of the Emirate of Granada. This was a powerful kingdom in southern Spain. The castle's high position was perfect for spotting enemies. It helped guard against attacks. It was a vital lookout point.
What Does the Castle Look Like?
The castle's design is very clever. It follows the natural shape of the rock. This made it very hard to attack. The walls are strong and thick. There are also towers that helped defenders. From the top, you can see far across the landscape. This view was important for defense. It also offers amazing sights today.
The Main Tower
The castle has a main tower. This tower is called the keep. It is the strongest part of the castle. The keep was where the most important people stayed. It was also the last place to defend. If enemies broke through the outer walls, the keep was the final stand.
The Walls and Courtyards
The castle has several walls. These walls create different areas. There are courtyards inside the castle. These spaces were used for daily life. Soldiers would train there. Supplies would be stored. The walls protected everyone inside. They were built to withstand sieges.
A Protected Historical Site
Being named a Bien de Interés Cultural is very important. It means the Spanish government protects the castle. This ensures it will be preserved for future generations. Visitors can explore the castle today. They can learn about its history. It is a great example of medieval architecture.
See also
In Spanish: Castillo de Olvera para niños
