Here are some of our favorite medieval towns on the Spanish coast:
Castelló d’Empúries
During the Middle Ages it was the capital of one of the most important Catalan counties and still retains many buildings from that era, such as the Iglesia Románica de Santa María, the former courthouse of Gothic style, several convents and a nice arcaded square. Empuriabrava, which was built on what was once a swamp area, is part of Castelló d’Empúries.
Peñíscola
Now more fashionable than ever for appearing in the acclaimed series ‘Game of Thrones’, Peñíscola had already appeared in the cinema, in films like ‘Calabuch’ (1956) and ‘El Cid’ (1961). Castillo del Papa Luna and the walls are worth a visit, but there is much more to see in this beautiful Castellonense city.
Sagunto
Sagunto became famous in the third century B.C. when, being an Iberian city, withstood the siege of eight months from the Carthaginian general Hannibal. The Romans made it their favorite villa and then would belong to the Arabs, who were the ones who built the imposing castle of almost a kilometer long on the hill that can still be seen today. The city also retains its Jewish quarter, the main square and several medieval palaces.
Xativa
Xativa is another medieval town on the Spanish coast that you must jot down on your list. It preserves a rich artistic heritage, featuring la Ermita de San Félix, Hospital Real, many nobility palaces, but if something stands out is its walled castle with thirty towers and four fortified gates. The city served as a refuge for troops defeated by the Cid in the battle of Quart, so it is also part of the Ruta del Cid.
Vejer de la Frontera
In the Cadiz province, with its white houses, Vejer de la Frontera is not the typical medieval city you usually imagine. However, while venturing through its streets irregular streets you will discover its rich past. For five centuries and a half it was under Arab rule, when it was built its castle. And do not miss the Gothic-Mudejar Iglesia del Divino Salvador and its walls, which are accessible at several points.
