The Coca Castle, a visual landmark linking Christian heritage with Islamic tradition in 15th-century Castile
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The imposing Coca Castle stands on a bend of the Voltoya River, in the province of Segovia, as an excellent example of Gothic-Mudejar military architecture. Its red brick and limestone walls, battlemented towers, and colorful Mudejar tiles make this fortress a visual landmark linking Christian heritage with Islamic tradition in 15th-century Castile.
What is its origin and who commissioned its construction?
Built between 1453 and 1470 by order of Don Alonso de Fonseca, governor of Castile and chancellor of Juan II, Coca Castle replaced an ancient Muslim fortress. Conceived both as a noble residence and a defensive stronghold, it reflects the power of great noble families in the Late Middle Ages.
What architectural style predominates?
Its battlemented layout and prismatic towers showcase Gothic-Mudejar, a hybrid style combining pointed arches and reddish brick with glazed ceramic decoration. Features like lobed windows and Mudejar plaster friezes give its walls a unique character.
What defenses and elements stand out?
- Keep Tower: square plan and 30 m high, topped with sculpted chains.
- Moat and drawbridge: fed by the Voltoya River, making access challenging for attackers.
- Flanking towers: six defensive towers with arrow slits and machicolations covering all approaches.
- Courtyard: framed by Gothic galleries, used as a meeting and training space.
How to visit?
- Location: in the town of Coca, 50 km northwest of Segovia.
- Opening hours: open year-round (check official website for schedules); paid entrance with discounts for minors and cultural association members.
- Guided tours: available on weekends and holidays; prior reservation recommended.
- Accessible access: ramps and hydraulic elevator available for most areas.
In short, Coca Castle is much more than a fortress: it is a masterpiece of military Mudejar architecture, a living history lesson, and a privileged viewpoint over the landscapes of the Segovian countryside.
How to get there
Decimal: 41.215278°, -4.525556°
DMS: 41°12'55" N, 4°31'32" O
