12 Beautiful Walled Cities in Spain to Visit in Your Lifetime
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If armies of belligerent nations still fought with swords and mangonels, Spain would be the last country they’d want to invade. That’s on account of its many ancient and medieval walled cities, some of which are almost completely intact. When visiting these ancient fortifications, you’re transported to a time when no one was asking if chivalry was dead and castles dotted the landscape. For example, in Toledo, the ancient capital of Spain, from the winding alleys of the old town to the grandeur of the alcázar, the imposing walls remain as relics of the country’s textured history of conquest, coexistence, and cultural exchange. Throughout the Iberian peninsula, walled cities can be found in abundance, each one with its own unique charm and character. Here, we’ve highlighted 12 walled cities worth invading—er... visiting—to get a taste of that quintessential, timeless beauty of Spain's architectural heritage.
Carmona, Andalusia
Carmona's historic center, enveloped by medieval walls, is a a smorgasbord of Roman ruins (the Necropolis is a must-see) and Umayyad signatures (Alcázar de la Puerta de Sevilla).
Toledo, Castile-La Mancha
Toledo is the Spanish city with arguably the most beautiful-sounding name when pronounced in Castilian. It's also among the most iconic medieval walled cities in Europe with Toledo Cathedral as its architectural ne plus ultra.
Dalt Vila, Ibiza
Dalt Vila, Ibiza’s ancient city which sits inside fortified walls, is the quintessence of Mediterranean allure. The island might be known for its nightlife scene, but like shots of hierbas, there’s more than an enough history and architectural beauty to go around.
Segovia, Castile and León
Segovia has all the medieval food groups represented: protective wall, cobblestone streets, a stunning Old Town, the fairy-tale alcázar. But its main attractions the Roman aqueduct, a marvel of ancient engineering that dominates the cityscape. Come for the security, stay for the Segovian roast suckling pig.
Cáceres, Extremadura
Enclosed by patinated walls, Cáceres is a compelling destination with a preserved medieval Old Town that has the added protection of a UNESCO designation.
Ronda, Andalusia
Ronda features dramatic cliffs and a historic center enclosed by medieval walls, including the iconic Puente Nuevo bridge. Even generative AI couldn’t come up with a cityscape this dreamlike.
Morella, Valencian Community
Built upon the rugged Maestrat mountains, Morella's medieval walls protect a town frozen in time. Its picturesque setting offers breathtaking views while always feeling completely safe from outside attack.
Brihuega, Castile-La Mancha
Brihuega, an hour outside Madrid, is known for its medieval walls, watchtowers, and picturesque streets, offering a historic escape after a some time museum hopping in Spain’s bustling capital.
Laguardia, Basque Country
The town of Laguardia in Álava is famous for its medieval walls and historic charm, and features gobsmacking panoramic views of vineyards in the surrounding landscape.
Lugo, Galicia
Lugo has the only completely intact Roman walls in Spain, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore its well-preserved historical center, where Roman ruins and medieval architecture converge. Despite modern expansion, the wall remains central to Lugo's identity, a hub of activity and pride. Come in June for Arde Lucus, an annual celebration of the city’s Roman past.
Ávila, Castile and León
Ávila is renowned for its well-preserved medieval walls and is one of Europe's best-preserved fortified towns. It’s a time capsule where visitors can take in the chic isolationist vibe and wander through its narrow streets in their finest cota de malla.
Tarragona (Catalonia)
Remnants of Roman walls intertwine with medieval fortifications in Tarragona. From its ancient amphitheater to its coastal vistas, this city is where style and high security become one.
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