Caravaca de la Cruz Castle

The so-called Cuesta del Castillo is a steep stone slab street leading to the castle gate, where people gather in May to see the famous Caballos del Vino (meaning "wine horse races"). To honor this tradition before getting to the fortress there is a statue of Rafael Pi's horse with two people in the front grabbing the reins and two in the back holding a decorated cloak. From the castle access there are beautiful views, including the bright red color of the bullring, built in 1880 on an old Franciscan convent.

 

Once in the Castle Square we find  Torre Chacona, a tower that gets its name from the person that rebuilt it in the 15^th century: Juan Chacón. However, the facade feature standing out the most is the main gate of the SW-facing church, renovated in the 17^{th century}.  Pictures inside the castle are not allowed.
 

It was declared a National Historic Monument on March 18, 1944

 

Those not wanting to walk up cuesta del castillo will be happy to know that it is possible to drive up to the actual castle gate.

You can also check our Guide of Castles in Murcia