Santiago Segura, José Mota, and producer Luis Álvarez have purchased the medieval Castillo de Pedraza in Segovia. Their plan: transform the iconic fortress into a vibrant cultural space with concerts, exhibitions, and public events.
The medieval Castillo de Pedraza in Segovia has entered a new chapter after being purchased by Santiago Segura, José Mota, and producer Luis Álvarez. The trio, known for their work in Spanish cinema and entertainment, acquired the fortress for €4.8 million, according to EFE. The sellers were descendants of the painter Ignacio Zuloaga, who had owned the castle since 1925.
Spanning over 680 square meters of habitable space, the castle stands as one of the most striking landmarks in Segovia. Its thick stone walls, defensive courtyards, grand halls, and atmospheric dungeons have long captured the imagination of visitors. Now, the new owners aim to open the castle’s doors to the public, moving beyond its status as a private heritage site to create a dynamic venue for cultural programming throughout the year.
Ambitious Cultural Plans
The acquisition was made through Teatropolis, the company linked to Luis Álvarez and his ongoing collaborations with Segura and Mota. Their vision is to turn the castle into a major stage for concerts, themed experiences, and a variety of cultural events. Luis Álvarez has indicated that the programming will draw inspiration from successful models elsewhere, aiming to make the site a reference point for arts and entertainment in the region.
For the first time, areas of the castle that were previously closed to the public—such as private rooms, noble halls, and spaces associated with the Zuloaga family—will be accessible to visitors. This marks a significant shift for the fortress, which has traditionally been admired from the outside or visited only on special occasions.
Centuries of History
The origins of the Castillo de Pedraza date back to the 13th century, with major reconstructions in the 15th and 16th centuries. The imposing keep, or torre del homenaje, and much of the current structure reflect these later renovations by the Dukes of Frías. The castle’s architecture preserves classic medieval features: fortified walls, towers, interior staircases, cisterns, noble chambers, and dungeons. Its elevated position offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, including the Sierra de Guadarrama and Somosierra.
The property’s grounds extend beyond the main building, encompassing adjacent land and an esplanade that overlooks the walled village of Pedraza. The setting, framed by the San Miguel and Vadillo streams, adds to the site’s appeal as a destination for cultural tourism.
Pedraza’s Enduring Appeal
Declared a Conjunto Monumental in 1951, Pedraza is recognized as one of Castilla y León’s most distinctive medieval towns. Its walled layout, arcaded Plaza Mayor, and cobbled streets have made it a favorite for visitors seeking a historical escape near Madrid and Segovia.
The castle is also closely associated with the Conciertos de las Velas, a celebrated annual event where the town is illuminated by thousands of candles and hosts open-air concerts on the first two Saturdays of July. The Fundación Villa de Pedraza has long promoted these concerts as a highlight of the local cultural calendar.
With this new phase, Santiago Segura, José Mota, and Luis Álvarez are positioning the Castillo de Pedraza as a living cultural landmark. Their plans include not only concerts and exhibitions, but also film shoots and activities for a broad audience. The project aims to reinforce the castle’s role as a draw for both cultural tourism and local heritage, building on the legacy of the Zuloaga family while opening new possibilities for public engagement.
