In the highest part of the Spanish city of Zamora, in Castilla-León, is located its castle, built on rock and adapted to the natural and irregular shape of the terrain. According to the chronicles, its construction was ordered by Alfonso II, however, recent studies by historians suggest that it was actually Fernando I who ordered its construction. Therefore, it is estimated that the castle dates from the mid-11th century, although very few traces remain from that period.
As the city of Zamora was a basic pillar for the Christian kingdoms in the process of reconquest, it was designed as a fortress, not as a palatial castle, with protection being the main objective. For this reason, in 1931 it received the maximum protection within the Spanish Historical Heritage.
The ground plan of Zamora Castle is rhomboidal or diamond-shaped (four sides are equal and its four opposite angles are equal 2 to 2) and three towers stand out (two with five points and one with seven). Currently, the perimeter of the castle is preserved, surrounded by a deep moat, which is preserved almost intact. To access it there is a bridge that was formerly a drawbridge. In addition, the most important walls, the parade ground and the keep are preserved in the castle.
En 2009, el Castillo pudo abrir sus puertas al público gracias a un proyecto impulsado por el Ayuntamiento de Zamora. Las labores de renovación de este complejo han permitido el acceso a toda la estructura, incluidas las almenas de la Torre del Homenaje, convirtiéndose en un mirador impresionante. Desde allí se puede divisar claramente, el cimborrio y la torre campanario de la Catedral de Zamora y una ciudad espectacular que merece ser contemplada desde lo alto. Hoy, el Castillo de Zamora es propiedad del Ministerio de Educación, Cultura y Deportes, encargados de su conservación.
Anexa al castillo se encuentra una zona conocida como “Parque del Castillo”, formada por unos jardines y un mirador. Una buena forma de descansar y contemplar esta impresionante estructura en un entorno natural.
