Calatrava La Nueva Castle-Convent

This castle stands on the impressive Alacranejo hill and, despite its primitive defensive character, it underwent various modifications. In front of it there is another hill with the ruins of the Salvatierra Castle, in the lands of Calzada de Calatrava.
It probably has Arab origin, but it was deeply remodeled with the transfer of the Knights of the Order from the Castle of Calatrava La Vieja (Carrión de Calatrava) in 1217, after the battle of Las Navas de Tolosa with the aim of consolidating the line defense of Sierra Morena.
In turn, it is made up of three walled enclosures and is accessed by the original road that was built on the occasion of the visit of Felipe II through the Iron Gate, in red volcanic stone. Later, we can find the Puerta de los Arcos, which allows us to enter the parlatorio or courtyard of the convent, the parade ground, the church, the rooms and the refectory. Really, when going through it, you can imagine what happened in those medieval times of fights and prayers, as well as enjoying and expanding your heart with the relaxing landscapes that can be seen from its battlements.