Castillo de Peñíscola

Peñíscola Castle is a medieval fortress and papal palace located in the historic center of Peñíscola, in the province of Castellón, on the rocky crag that dominates the Mediterranean coast. Its reference coordinates place it in the walled enclosure of the city, a strategic enclave that explains its defensive function and its strong relationship with the sea. It was built in the 13th century by the Knights Templar and later, in the 15th century, it became the papal residence of Benedict XIII, Pope Luna. For this reason, the complex is also known as the Templar-Pontifical castle or the castle of Pope Luna. The official tourist documentation emphasizes this double historical stage, Templar and pontifical, which defines the heritage value of the monument. From the architectural point of view, it is a medieval fortress of military Romanesque tradition, built on a previous enclosure of Islamic origin, according to the contrasted informative guides. Its plan is adapted to the rocky promontory and preserves walls, towers and palatial spaces associated with the pontifical period, elements that explain its exceptional preservation and its characteristic silhouette over the sea. The castle is one of the main heritage resources of Peñíscola and is protected as an Asset of Cultural Interest. It is one of the most representative monuments of the city and a key historical testimony of the passing of the Order of the Temple to the pontificate of Benedict XIII in the context of the Western Schism.