Castellar de la Frontera, a heritage of history

Castellar Castle, built in the thirteenth century, acquired great importance during the struggles between Christians and Muslims for control of the Strait. It was part of the defensive system of the Kingdom of Granada. This medieval fortress, perfectly preserved, houses a picturesque village within its walls. Founded by the Muslims, Castellar played a crucial role in the clashes between Castilians and Muslims. It is one of the few examples of an inhabited medieval fortification that is still intact.

The trail runs through the Natural Park of Los Alcornocales, in a semi-pristine area. Its official route of 5.8 km goes from the Puente de los Frailes, next to the Los Cuarteles farm, to the bridge near Venta Jarandilla. This route, called Monarch Butterfly, pays tribute to the large population of this species in Castellar. To avoid returning along the same route, it is extended to circular, using the old CA-5181 road. Alternatively, it can be combined with the Calzada Romana, which connects with the Castillo Fortaleza, of Roman origin.

Castellar "the new" contrasts with its namesake in the mountains. While the old Muslim village is located inside the fortress, the new village is modern, with wide streets, avenues, large green areas and advanced social services. In 1968, the Colonization Institute expropriated 700 hectares of La Almoraima S.A., owned by the Ducal House of Medinaceli, to create a colonization village. In 1971, the new Castellar was completed, where the former residents moved in. This change marked a new stage, with extensions that have benefited the community. It stands out for the whiteness of its houses and gardens, being an ideal place for development and prosperity.

The first documented evidence of population in Almoraima is a watchtower built by the Muslims to transmit alerts of possible invasions. In 1603 the Convent of San Miguel de La Almoraima was built, occupied by friars of the Order of the Merced. In 1868 it became the property of the Duke of Medinaceli, and in 1982 a halt was built exclusively for the Ducal House, which later became the Almoraima station. In 1945 the "Empresa Corchera Almoraima" was created, which promoted the growth of the town, although with precarious housing. In 1962, housing was built for employees, but the population exceeded 1,500 people. After the creation of Nuevo Castellar, many inhabitants moved there, leaving Almoraima with about 200 residents.

Located on a mountain overlooking the Bay of Algeciras, the Rock of Gibraltar, the coast of Africa and nearby villages, Castellar has been an important settlement of various cultures. The first human traces date back to the Paleolithic and Neolithic, with a remarkable lithic industry and cave paintings near the old village. Its historic center, with narrow streets and Andalusian houses, offers a unique beauty. The panoramic views over the Campo de Gibraltar and Morocco make Castellar an essential stop in southern Andalusia. In the 60's, the New Town of Castellar was built 8 km away.