Castle of Jadraque facts for kids
The Castle of Jadraque is a famous old castle in a town called Jadraque, in Castile-La Mancha, Spain. It sits high up on a hill, looking over the flat land of the Henares river. Some people even call it the "Castle of Cid." This is because it's mentioned in a very old Spanish poem called Cantar del Mio Cid.
This castle is built from strong, cut stones called ashlar. It has a rectangular shape, like a big box. Its outer walls stretch for 240 meters! The castle also has four round towers and one rectangular tower.
Contents
History of Jadraque Castle
Ancient Roots and Moorish Times
Long ago, people lived on the hill where the castle now stands. Scientists have found proof that the site was used even in prehistoric times. Later, it became a strong fort for the Moorish rulers of Spain. These rulers were part of the emirate of Spain.
Christian Conquest and New Owners
In the year 1085, Christian armies took control of the castle. This happened under the leadership of Alfonso VI of Castile. Many years later, in 1469, a very important church leader named Cardinal Pedro González de Mendoza bought the castle.
Building the Current Castle
The castle you see today was mostly built in the late 1400s. A famous builder named Juan Guas is thought to have designed it. There was an older castle on the same spot before. Only one part of that old castle, a five-sided tower, was left. But even that tower was later taken down.
The Mendoza Family Home
The Mendoza family used the castle as their grand home. It was a place for them to live and show their power. But after one of its owners, Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar y Mendoza, passed away, the castle was left empty.
Castle in Wars
Even after being abandoned, the Castle of Jadraque was used again as a fort. It played a role in the War of Spanish Succession. This was a big war in the early 1700s. It was also used during the Peninsular War in the early 1800s. This shows how important its location was for defense.
