Castles of Asomada and Portazgo

Both castles are in the Cadena mountain pass. The ruins of Asomada castle, located on top of the mountain pass, are visible from the freeway running through the pass. This castle, dating back to the ruling period of Muhamed ibn Mardains in the 12^th century, apparently was never fully built due to financial difficulties. Once on top of the mountain where the ruins are located, there are views of the Cartagena countryside, Cabezo Gordo, Mar Menor, La Manga del Mar Menor and, on a clear day, even the other side of the Murcia orchard. This is certainly a strategic point used to control accesses to the old city of Murcia.

 

The Portazgo castle, which sits right next to the freeway in a rest area where families love to go on the weekend for a picnic or a stroll, is the starting point of an easy trekking route of steady slope all the way up to the mountain where the Asomada castle is located.

 

The Portazgo castle, used by different civilizations, is currently divided by the freeway that goes across the Cadena Mountain Pass, with the two parts being at different altitudes. The lowest part used to house the stables, whereas the highest part was the old fortress used for leisure purposes by the city's ruling class. Some Arab arches, baths and domes still stand.

 

These castles, used as control checkpoints for people and goods, were symbols of power over large, important areas.
 

You can make a fun hiking trail where you can visit the remains of two castles

 

You can also check our Guide of Castles in Murcia