Pliego Castle

The Castillo de Pliego is located on top of “cerro del Castillo” (castle hill), a strategic place known for its many cliffs and steep paths comprising natural impregnable defenses. From the hill it is possible to see the town of Pliego, the old fortified settlement of Mota (known as castillo de las Paleras), the Pliego river course, as well as the road connecting the Mula river valley to the Guadalentín plains. The castle was an important fortress for the Muslim kingdom of Murcia during the 12^th century. 

 

After the kingdom of Murcia joined the crown of Castile in the 13^th century, the Pliego castle was occupied by Castilian troops whereas the Pliego area, inhabited by people of Muslim origin, was purchased by the Order of Santiago in the 15^th century. This resulted in the castle being part of a large, powerful network of fortresses owned by Uclés knights in territories neighboring the kingdom of Granada.

 

In 2012 the castle was restored and its access paved. The walled area, a tank and the Homenaje tower, the most emblematic and visible part of the castle, are still standing. In the area there is a viewpoint from which the entire town of Pliego can be seen. This nearly completed defensive construction includes a wonderful mortar wall and elements such as battlements and watch paths. The construction has two main parts: The Fortress and the Wall. The fortress, main element, has a slightly triangular layout with walls punctuated by seven medium-sized towers and a large tower next to the main fortress access. The wall, facing East and Southeast and Southwest, is made of a semi-closed, inner anti-wall. The castle set was declared Site of Cultural Interest in 1985.

 

You can also check our Guide of Castles in Murcia

 

Get directions:

The castle is very near Pliego, some 600 meters from the Virgen de los Remedios Chapel, where there is a large parking area. After passing the chapel on your left, take the street on the right. After leaving behind the Cinto avenue, you will find indications for the esplanade. Continue on the paving stone path an additional 300 meters till you get to the castle. You can also park the car on the esplanade.

 

In the document “Route for Pliego Castle and Cairel. PR-MU77” you can get directions to the castle and the antenna area, where there are beautiful views of Sierra Espuña, Pliego and Mula.