The castle at Almodóvar stands in a strategic position, 22km south east of Cordoba, at a height of 252m on top of a hill called Cerro de la Floresta. It occupies a total area of 5,600 square metres. From a distance the castle looks very impressive and dominating.

The castle was originally built by the Arabs around 720 on the site of an ancient Roman and Iberian fort. It originally belonged to the Caliphate of Cordoba, although it was later occupied by Fernando III, the saint in 1240 and further additions were made by its Christian owners. It was used as a temporary residence by both Pedro I and Enrique II of Castille; both Monarchs kept their prisoners here. Folklore also has it that some kings kept their treasures here.

From the 15th century, the whole region was in Christian hands so the castle lost its purpose as a defence station so the castle fell into a state of disrepair. At the turn of the 20th century, the castle owner, Rafael Desmaisieres, Count of Torrealva began a massive restoration project that was to last 36 years. The castle is now one of the best preserved in the whole of Spain; a visit is a must.

The castle is open to visitors every day. EEC citizens can visit the castle FREE of charge on Wednesdays, between 4pm and 7pm.

The normal entry price is 4 euros for adults, 3 euros for under 14's, under 5's free.

Opening times: Winter 11am-2.30pm and 4pm-7pm Summer: 11am-2.30pm and 4pm-8pm

The castle has several rooms with permanent displays of photographs and artefacts. There are also rooms with displays of dummies showing what life in the castle was like. There is a castle shop and very clean toilet facilities.

The castle has its own website at www.castillodealmodovar.com

The information centre can be contacted on:
Tel 0034 670 338 430 or 0034 607 562 022
Email: abecerasa@worldonline.es