If you’ve ever wandered through the Costa Blanca and thought, “I fancy a bit of history with my sunshine,” then Castillo de Dénia is the perfect spot for you.
Towering proudly over the seaside town of Dénia, this ancient fortress has seen it all—from Roman settlers to Moorish rulers, medieval knights, pirates, and even modern tourists looking for that picture-perfect panoramic view.
You simply can’t visit Dénia without taking a stroll up to the Castillo de Dénia—it’s like a time machine with sea breezes, where every stone whispers a story.
A Little Background on Castillo de Dénia
Perched on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean and the town below, Castillo de Dénia has been watching over this coastline for centuries.
Before it became a castle, this was the site of Roman Diannium—yes, there are still traces of Roman structures around here if you look closely enough. But the real story kicks off in the 11th and 12th centuries, during Islamic rule. That’s when the fortress began to take shape as a stronghold and palace for the rulers of the day.
The original fortress was built as a palace-citadel, complete with two main sections. The lower area, known as the Al-bacar, housed livestock and supplies, while the upper area was reserved for the ruler’s residence—quite the setup for its time. Just outside the castle was the bustling Arab medina, or city, thriving with life.
Later on, in the early 1300s, under Christian rule, the castle was transformed into the walled heart of the town, giving birth to the Vila Vella, the old town area that grew into a major urban hub.
Battles, Palaces, and Restorations
Through the Renaissance, Castillo de Dénia saw plenty of additions. The striking Torre Roja (Red Tower) was built, defensive walls were reinforced, and the Governor’s Palace—once home to the Duke of Lerma, a close ally of King Philip III—was rebuilt as a luxurious seasonal residence.
However, as with many old fortresses, not all stories here are sunny. The War of the Spanish Succession brought destruction, damaging both the castle and the Vila Vella. Eventually, the fortress lost its military role and spent a stretch of the 19th century in private hands, before finally being reclaimed by the town in the 20th century.
Thanks to several restoration projects, today’s visitors can wander its walls, towers, and courtyards, soaking up history and those sensational sea views.
Highlights of a Visit to Castillo de Dénia
Exploring Castillo de Dénia feels like unwrapping layers of history, each section revealing something fascinating. Here are some of the standout features you shouldn’t miss:
Portal de la Vila
This is the castle’s grand entrance, dating back to the 12th century. It’s got that unmistakable Moorish touch—just look at the pointed arches and the barrel-vaulted ceiling.
Torre Roja
Built from distinctive red sandstone, this 15th-century tower stands proudly beside the entrance and makes quite the first impression.
Torre del Cos de Guardia
Opposite the Portal de la Vila, this tower was once the sentry’s post. It’s been updated over the centuries but still carries its medieval charm.
Torre del Consell
Here’s where the old Town Council once gathered. This Gothic tower boasts a stunning ribbed vault ceiling and offers a glimpse into Dénia’s civic history.
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