Far from the bustling tourist trails, across the vast plains of Castilla-La Mancha, lies a place where time seems to have stopped. This is Belmonte, located in the province of Cuenca—a town whose appearance instantly transports you to the era of knights and courtly intrigue. Its silhouette, crowned by a majestic citadel atop San Cristóbal hill, can be seen from afar and serves as a reliable landmark for those seeking authentic, untouched history.
The centerpiece of the entire ensemble is, without a doubt, the fifteenth-century castle. Built by order of Juan Pacheco, Marqués de Villena, it stands as a unique example of Gothic architecture with Mudejar elements. Its unusual triangular design and pentagonal outer courtyard are truly striking. The fortress is so well preserved that it is often chosen as a set for historical films and for hosting medieval combat tournaments, which add vibrancy and relevance to the site. Inside, visitors discover real treasures: exquisite Mudejar-style wooden ceilings, delicate Gothic stuccowork, and reliefs that tell stories from bygone days. Every hall and corridor here breathes history.
But Belmonte is more than just its main fortress. The town carefully preserves a significant part of its defensive structures. Of the five gates that once served as entrances to the city, three have survived to this day: San Juan, Chinchilla, and the New Gate. A walk through the historic center, officially recognized as a site of cultural interest, becomes a journey of discovery. Cobbled streets wind between old buildings, among which the palace of Don Juan Manuel and the historic Casa de Comedias Theater stand out. These structures are silent witnesses to the former splendor and prosperity of the municipality.
A serious rival to the castle in attracting travelers’ attention is the collegiate church of San Bartolomé. This Gothic church guards unique artifacts, including the baptismal font where, according to legend, the renowned poet and humanist Fray Luis de León was baptized. The carved choir stalls, brought here from the Cuenca Cathedral, are of particular note. The town’s cultural offerings are further enriched by numerous chapels, monasteries, and small museums, making a visit even more rewarding.
If you are planning a visit in 2025, there are a few practical points to keep in mind. The journey from Madrid takes about an hour and a half by car, while the drive from Cuenca, the provincial capital, takes around an hour. At the foot of the castle, there is a spacious, free parking lot. The entrance fee for adults is 9 euros, and for 13 euros you can buy a combined ticket that includes a visit to the siege machine park. The best time to visit is in the morning or evening, when the heat subsides and the soft light perfectly highlights the beauty of the ancient stones. There are other interesting places nearby, such as a windmill that makes for a great Don Quixote-style photo backdrop, or the ruins of Garcimuñoz Castle, just a 20-minute drive away.
