Peniscola Castle

Peniscola Castle sits on a rocky headland on Spain’s Mediterranean coast in the province of Castellón and is a prominent medieval fortress with large stone walls and sea-facing battlements. Construction and major consolidation took place in the 13th and 14th centuries and the complex occupies the tip of the promontory.

The site includes the fortified castle and a compact walled old town that fills the headland behind it; ramparts and terraces provide coastal views and photographic vantage points. The castle interior contains courtyards and battlements accessible to visitors and the headland includes a small lighthouse and promenades along the seafront.

Originally developed by the Knights Templar on earlier fortifications, the castle later became the residence of the Avignon pope Benedict XIII (Papa Luna) in the early 15th century, an episode that increased its regional political importance. Over time the fortress and town were maintained and adapted for civilian use while preserving much of their medieval plan.

The castle and town sit on a headland that projects into the Mediterranean at Peñíscola, on the Valencian Community coast; the site is directly adjacent to beaches and coastal roads and is a short walk from the modern town centre.

• Historical role: The castle was developed by the Knights Templar in the later Middle Ages and later served as the residence of Avignon pope Benedict XIII (known as Papa Luna) in the early 15th century.
• Viewpoints: Good viewpoints are from the outer walls and the headland walk, which provide uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean and the town below.

What to See #

• Castle: A medieval fortress occupying a rocky promontory on the Mediterranean coast, with curtain walls, central courtyards and sea-facing battlements dating mainly to the 13th and 14th centuries. The castle dominates the headland and offers views along the coast.
• Walled old town: A compact walled old town clustered behind the castle, with narrow streets, shops and restaurants built into and around medieval walls and ramparts.
• Lighthouse and seafront: A small lighthouse and rocky seafront at the tip of the headland, adjacent to beaches and promenades used for coastal viewing and walks.