Burgalimar Castle Baños de la Encina
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Burgalimar Castle Baños de la Encina

4.6
·4k reviews·Baños de la Encina, Spain

Burgalimar Castle, Spain's oldest fortress, offers a remarkable glimpse into Umayyad military architecture with stunning views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunrise

Breathtaking views, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Burgalimar Castle Baños de la Encina

Burgalimar Castle Baños de la Encina

Best Time

Sunrise

Breathtaking views, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Burgalimar Castle, Spain's oldest fortress, offers a remarkable glimpse into Umayyad military architecture with stunning views.

4.6
(4k reviews)

"A great visit to the oldest castle in Spain, worth it for the view!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Opening Days

Confirm opening hours before your visit, as some attractions may be closed on certain days. :calendar:

👟 Climb for the Views

Many steps to the tower top, but the panoramic views are absolutely worth the effort! :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Burgalimar Castle

Burgalimar Castle

Baños de la Encina

Spain's oldest standing castle, a remarkably preserved 10th-century Umayyad fortress.

Torre del Homenaje

Torre del Homenaje

Burgalimar Castle

The Keep Tower, added in the 15th century, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Baños de la Encina Village

Baños de la Encina Village

Surrounding the castle

A charming white-washed village perched on a hill, offering picturesque streets and rural beauty.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Check opening days before you go! Some visitors found the castle closed on Tuesdays, which was a surprise. Arriving early, especially for sunrise, offers stunning views and fewer crowds. Reddit

Accessibility & Views

While the castle is well-preserved, reaching the top of the tower involves many steps. The panoramic views from the top are highly recommended by visitors. Reddit

Best Times

When
Sunrise
Why
Breathtaking views, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Good for exploring village
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Entre los pueblos bonitos de España, 📍Baños de la Encina 🏰 JAÉN 🏰 No es casualidad que sea uno de los pueblos más bonitos de España: su castillo, su historia y sus paisajes hacen que cada visita sea inolvidable 🏡 🍴 @buryrestaurante Un viaje por las raíces árabes de Baños de la Encina, con una cocina con protagonismo del producto local actualizada y cuenta con la mejor tarta de 🧀 del mundo (Está ...
@stellatrece
21.8K likes • 799.3K views

🎯 Check Opening Days

Confirm opening hours before your visit, as some attractions may be closed on certain days. Reddit :calendar:

👟 Climb for the Views

Many steps to the tower top, but the panoramic views are absolutely worth the effort! Reddit :athletic_shoe:

🎥 Burgalimar Castle in Baños de la Encina, Jaén 🏰🇪🇸 . was built in 968 by order of the Cordoban caliph Al-Hakam II. During the Reconquista, it changed hands several times between Muslims and Christians, and was finally taken by Ferdinand III in 1225. In the 15th century, the Keep Tower (Torre del Homenaje) was added, altering the castle’s original structure. . 🌍 #monumental_spain #andaluciaturismo...
explore.castles
927 likes • 11.5K views
Castillo de Burgalimar, es una fortaleza omeya, construida en el siglo X sobre un pequeño cerro que domina la localidad de Baños de la Encina, Jaén. • • #jaen #castle #bañosdelaencina #andalucia
gemadosa
102 likes • 8.9K views

📸 Sunrise Magic

Arrive at sunrise for stunning vistas and a peaceful experience. Reddit :sunrise:

🗺️ Explore the Village

Wander through the charming white-washed streets of Baños de la Encina. TikTok :villagereden:

Spain’s Oldest Castle. 🏰 Hidden in the town of Baños de la Encina, Burgalimar Castle is Spain’s oldest standing castle. Built around 968 AD under the Umayyad Caliphate of Córdoba, it’s one of the best-preserved fortresses in Europe. #BurgalimarCastle #jaen #BañosDeLaEncina #SpainHistory #CastlesOfSpain #MedievalSpain #HistoricSpain #VisitSpain #TravelSpain #andalucía #spainonfoot
spainonfoot
19 likes • 277 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Opening Days

Confirm opening hours before your visit, as some attractions may be closed on certain days. Reddit :calendar:

👟 Climb for the Views

Many steps to the tower top, but the panoramic views are absolutely worth the effort! Reddit :athletic_shoe:

📸 Sunrise Magic

Arrive at sunrise for stunning vistas and a peaceful experience. Reddit :sunrise:

🗺️ Explore the Village

Wander through the charming white-washed streets of Baños de la Encina. TikTok :villagereden:

🗣️ English Information

Information boards and recordings are available in English for a better understanding. Reddit :information_desk:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Burgalimar Castle for its historical significance as Spain's oldest fortress and its remarkably well-preserved state. The stunning panoramic views from the tower are a major highlight, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape and the charming village. However, some visitors have been disappointed by unexpected closures, particularly on Tuesdays, highlighting the importance of checking opening hours in advance.

"Was a great visit to the oldest castle in Spain, there is a recording with English subtitles and all the information boards have English too. Quite a few steps up to the top of the tower, but worth it for the view."

Christine Smith

"Stunning view all over the area. We arrived at sunrise, around 7 in the morning, for a quick stop on our way to Seville. The castle and the village are breathtaking."

Giorgos F.

"We enjoyed going to the castle which had great views."

Sherif Labib

What People Like

Oldest castle in Spain
Stunning panoramic views
Well-preserved fortress

What People Dislike

Unexpected closures (Tuesdays)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Burgalimar Castle is located in the town of Baños de la Encina, Jaén, Spain. The easiest way to reach it is by car, as it's situated in a rural area. There are parking facilities available near the castle. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus schedules in advance is recommended if you're not driving. TikTokInstagram

While Baños de la Encina is a beautiful destination, public transport can be less frequent compared to larger cities. It's advisable to check bus routes and schedules from Jaén or nearby towns. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring the region and reaching the castle. Instagram

Jaén province is best accessed by flying into a major Andalusian airport like Seville (SVQ) or Malaga (AGP), and then renting a car or taking a train/bus to Jaén city. From Jaén, you can then drive to Baños de la Encina. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary, and it's crucial to check in advance. Some visitors have noted that the castle may be closed on Tuesdays. It's best to confirm the current schedule on their official website or by contacting them directly to avoid disappointment. Reddit

Information on ticket prices is best obtained directly from the castle's official sources or local tourist information. Many visitors find the entry fee to be reasonable for the historical significance and views offered. Reddit

While online booking options may be available, it's always a good idea to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on ticket purchasing. This can help you secure your entry, especially during peak seasons. Reddit

The castle is generally open year-round, but specific days and hours can change seasonally or due to local holidays. Always verify the current operating schedule before planning your visit. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Burgalimar Castle, one of Spain's oldest fortresses, offers a glimpse into Umayyad military architecture. You can explore its ramparts, towers, and the Keep Tower (Torre del Homenaje). Information boards and recordings provide historical context, often with English subtitles. InstagramReddit+1

Guided tours might be offered, especially during peak tourist seasons. It's recommended to inquire about tour availability and schedules upon arrival or check the castle's official website. Instagram

For photography, sunrise offers magical light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing the castle's silhouette and the surrounding landscape. Reddit Late afternoon can also provide beautiful golden hour light. Instagram

The castle has many steps, particularly to reach the top of the Keep Tower. While the lower areas might be accessible, visitors with mobility challenges should be aware that extensive climbing is involved to experience the full site. Reddit

The views from Burgalimar Castle, especially from the Torre del Homenaje, are spectacular. You get panoramic vistas of the charming village of Baños de la Encina, the surrounding Sierra Morena, and the nearby lake. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the charming village of Baños de la Encina has several restaurants and bars offering local cuisine. You can enjoy traditional Andalusian dishes after your castle visit. TikTok

Expect hearty Andalusian fare, often featuring local produce. Restaurants like @buryrestaurante are mentioned for their focus on local ingredients with a modern twist. TikTok

While there might not be designated picnic areas within the castle itself, the surrounding village and nearby natural areas offer opportunities for picnics with scenic views. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The entire castle offers stunning photographic opportunities. Key spots include the imposing rammed earth walls, the crenellated towers, and the panoramic views from the Keep Tower. The village itself, with its white houses, also makes for beautiful shots. Instagram+2

Sunrise provides a dramatic and serene atmosphere, ideal for capturing the castle's silhouette against the morning sky. Reddit Golden hour in the late afternoon also offers beautiful, warm light. Instagram

Drone regulations vary by location and are subject to change. It's essential to check local aviation laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over or near the castle and its surroundings. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Burgalimar Castle can be an exciting adventure for families. The sheer scale of the castle and its history as a fortress can capture children's imaginations. While there are many steps to climb, especially to the top of the tower, the lower ramparts and courtyards are generally accessible for younger children to explore. The information boards with English subtitles can help make the history engaging for older kids. Consider packing snacks and water, as facilities within the castle might be limited. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those passionate about history and architecture, Burgalimar Castle is a must-visit. Its status as one of Spain's oldest and best-preserved Umayyad fortresses offers a unique opportunity to study Andalusian military architecture.Instagram+1 The rammed earth construction and the strategic layout provide insights into medieval defensive strategies. The castle's evolution through different historical periods, from its Umayyad origins to its additions during the Reconquista, makes it a rich site for study and appreciation. Instagram+1

📸 Photographers & Instagrammers

Photographers will find Burgalimar Castle and its surroundings incredibly photogenic. The dramatic silhouette of the castle against the sky, especially at sunrise or sunset, is a popular subject.InstagramReddit The textures of the rammed earth walls, the intricate details of the towers, and the panoramic vistas from the Keep Tower offer endless creative possibilities. Don't forget to capture the charm of the white-washed village of Baños de la Encina for a complete visual story. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through History: Burgalimar Castle's Origins

Burgalimar Castle, also known as Bury al-Hammam, stands as a testament to centuries of history, making it one of Spain's oldest castles and a significant example of Umayyad military architecture.Instagram+2 Construction began around 968 AD under the Cordoban caliph Al-Hakam II, reflecting the strategic importance of the region during the Caliphate of Córdoba.Instagram+1 Its imposing rammed earth walls and 14 crenellated towers have been remarkably preserved, offering visitors a tangible connection to the past.Instagram+1

Throughout the Reconquista, the castle changed hands multiple times between Muslim and Christian forces, a testament to its strategic value. It was finally captured by Ferdinand III in 1225.Instagram The addition of the Torre del Homenaje (Keep Tower) in the 15th century further altered its defensive capabilities and silhouette.Instagram This layered history makes Burgalimar Castle a fascinating site for anyone interested in medieval Spain and Andalusian heritage. Instagram

Exploring Baños de la Encina: More Than Just a Castle

While Burgalimar Castle is the crown jewel, the village of Baños de la Encina itself is a destination worth exploring.TikTokInstagram This charming Andalusian village is characterized by its whitewashed houses clinging to a hillside, creating a picturesque scene against the backdrop of the Sierra Morena mountains.Instagram Wandering through its narrow, winding streets offers a glimpse into traditional Spanish village life.

For breathtaking views that extend beyond the castle walls, head to the Mirador Peñalosa. This viewpoint provides stunning vistas over the village, the castle, and the nearby lake within the natural park.Instagram It's an excellent spot for photography and to appreciate the natural beauty of the Jaén province. The village also offers local dining experiences, with restaurants serving regional specialties.TikTok

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