Madinat Al-Zahra – Almodovar del Rio

Discover Andalucia on your own pace.

Take the time to soak it all in and enjoy the vistas, scenery, nature, culture and gastronomy.

SabrinaVandierendonck

02/10/2022

Andalusia’s Moorish Past

20 km – 20 min

This is a discovery tour of the Moorish past of Andalusia, stage 2.

A short 20 km drive from Medina Azahara, we arrive in Almodovar del Rio.

Almodovar Castle

Leaving Medina Azahara by noon is too early for lunch in Spain….so a stopover in Almodóvar del Rio, about 20 km from Medina Azahara is perfect !
The Castle of Almodovar del Rio played an extremely important role in the defense of the surrounding area because of its strategic location on a hill, next to the river Guadalquivir. The traces of multiple cultures, including Islam and Christianity, can be demonstrated in the architectural style of this unique building. In the year 756 this fort became the estate of the Moorish prince Al’del Malik Ben Qatan and from 758 it fell into the hands of the emirate of Cordoba in the reign of Abderraman I.

Off the beaten track

Almodovar del Rio Castle

a 20 minute drive from Medina Azahara. Perfect for a stopover before lunch

Incredible views

From the top of the castle, the views are to die for. With its strategic location on the hill from where you get a 360° panoramic view, it is obvious why they chose this place to defend the surrounding area.
Perched atop rugged cliffs and cloaked in an aura of ancient mystique, Almodovar Castle provides a breathtaking backdrop to some of the most iconic scenes in Game of Thrones.
From the towering battlements, one can gaze upon the vast expanse of the realm below, where battles were waged and alliances forged. The panoramic views offer a cinematic canvas that transports viewers into the heart of the Seven Kingdoms, where political intrigue and epic clashes unfolded.

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History

Almodovar Castle’s history unfolds like the pages of a medieval epic, dating back to the 8th century when it was constructed by the Moors. Originally named “Al-Mudawwar,” the castle stood as a testament to Islamic architectural prowess, perched strategically to guard the lands below.
In the subsequent centuries, the castle changed hands multiple times, witnessing the ebb and flow of power in medieval Spain. It became a coveted prize for various Christian and Muslim rulers, each leaving their mark on its weathered walls. The Reconquista saw Almodovar Castle transformed into a Christian stronghold, a bastion against the shifting tides of conquest.
As centuries rolled by, the castle underwent renovations and expansions, adapting to the evolving technologies and warfare strategies of the times. It became a living testament to the resilience of its builders, surviving sieges, fires, and the passage of time itself.

Game of Thrones

The renovation of the castle started in 1902. Only in 2001 it was opened to the general public.
Various scenes from the 7th season of Game of Thrones were recorded here. There are several tours and reenactment journeys that can be booked.
We were especially struck by the beautiful restoration. Try to get to the top of one of the many lookout towers to enjoy an unforgettable view of the surrounding landscape.
So, if you like castles, knights and Game of Thrones, then this your place !