Far from the busy tourist routes, deep in the heart of Extremadura, lie lands steeped in centuries of history. Here, atop a hill, the imposing silhouette of a fortress rises proudly—a silent witness to changing eras, epic battles, and the birth of legends. More than just a stone structure, this is a true portal to the past, hidden from the eyes of most travelers. Located in the comarca of Llanos de Olivenza, this castle of Arab origin, later rebuilt by powerful knightly orders, is today one of the region’s most impressive landmarks. From its ramparts, breathtaking panoramic views unfold, and every stone seems to whisper tales of the former glory of southwestern Spain.
From Arab stronghold to Templar bastion
This refers to the Miraflores Castle in Alconchel. Its story began during the era of Muslim rule, when the first citadel was built on top of Cerro de Miraflores hill, nearly 300 meters above sea level. Its strategic position allowed control over vast territories all the way to the Portuguese border. In the 12th century, at the height of the Reconquista, the fortress was seized by the Portuguese monarch Afonso Henriques, who launched a large-scale reconstruction. Later, the castle came under the control of the Order of the Temple, and then the Order of Alcántara, becoming one of the key strongholds on the volatile border between the kingdoms of Castile and Portugal. For centuries, its walls bore silent witness to geopolitical intrigue and bloody battles that shaped the fate of the Iberian Peninsula.
Architectural grandeur and military legacy
Alconchel Castle has not only withstood the test of time, but thanks to recent restoration, has regained its former splendor. Its massive structure—originally built with three rings of defensive walls and an imposing main tower, the keep—strikes with its solidity. The walls are made of sturdy stone masonry, and the corners of the main tower are reinforced with hewn stones, a testament to the high skill of medieval builders. Inside the fortress, crucial elements of medieval life have been preserved: underground cisterns for collecting rainwater, gloomy dungeons, a small chapel, and a spacious inner courtyard where soldiers once marched. A walk around the castle vividly brings to life what it was like in this military stronghold, full of harsh realities and knightly valor.
A New Life for Ancient Walls
Today, this stronghold has been given new life. Within its walls now stands the Interpretation Center of the Great Lake Alqueva Fortifications, where visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history of the region’s border defenses. What’s more, the castle is actively being transformed into a cultural hub, hosting congresses, exhibitions, and festivals. Regional authorities aim to turn it into the main cultural and tourist attraction in southern Extremadura, drawing history enthusiasts from all over Europe. Getting to the castle is easy—signs on the EX-107 highway lead straight to its base, and the main gates still exude an atmosphere of grandeur and mystery left behind by the Templars.
Legends and Myths of Cerro de Miraflores
Like any ancient site, the castle is shrouded in local legends. The most popular tells of an extensive network of underground tunnels supposedly linking the fortress to the parish church and the Esperanza chapel. Although archaeological studies have never confirmed their existence, these tales continue to spark the imagination of visitors and locals alike. But even without mystical secrets, Miraflores remains one of the greatest architectural treasures in the province of Badajoz—a true medieval gem, where history, culture, and breathtaking scenery combine to create an unforgettable experience.
