Buñol Castle

The Castle of Buñol is a large fortress that dominates the town from the top of the rock. Its origins date back to the 11th and 12th centuries, and it underwent several phases of expansion and improvement throughout history. These include an Islamic phase, when the original core was established; a second phase after the Christian conquest; a third phase of consolidation; a fourth phase under the Lordship of Buñol; and a contemporary phase marked by its civil use.During its period of greatest splendour, in the 15th and 16th centuries, it became the residence of the Counts of Buñol, the Mercader family, evolving from a military fortress into a noble and residential complex. The ensemble was organised into two main areas: the Parade Ground, devoted to military functions; and the Noble Precinct, which includes the Main Tower, the Gothic Palace, the Manor House and the Church of El Salvador.In the lower area there was a garden linked to a water system and a cistern. Overall, the complex combined defensive, representative and domestic functions, forming a small fortified town.Over time, the castle adapted to civil uses and became integrated into the life of the town. Today, it remains a living place where history, architecture and daily life coexist in a unique setting.