THE CASTLE

Recognised as a Historic-Artistic monument in 1931, the castle is located at the highest point of the rock, 64 metres above sea level, with a circumference of 230 metres.

The Castle, built by the Knights of the Templar on the remains of an ancient Arab citadel, underwent minor alterations under the rule of Benedict XIII, being transformed into a papal palace.

The walls are of hewn stone masonry, while all of the rooms feature barrel vaults which rise up from extremely simple imposts consisting of an ornamental cordon.

The sobriety and solidity of the construction stand out throughout, both in the Templar rooms and in the strategic and intricate papal chambers.

Despite the amendments made by Philip II to adapt the fortress for the use of artillery and the bombardments it underwent in various wars and sieges, the structure of the castle has not been substantially altered.

ARTILLERY DEPOT

The Artillery Depot was restored and converted into a botanic park. Enjoy strolling around the gardens full of palm and olive trees, lavender bushes and native flora from the Serra d'Irta Natural Park. Over the years, the gardens of Pope Luna's Castle have remained a strategic vantage point, allowing you to take in the whole of the bay of Peñíscola in one go: a vision of rare beauty, with the waves rolling into the shore at the North Beach, almost as if they were paying their respects to the impregnable fortress.

WALLS

In addition to the castle, which is located on the highest part of the tómbolo(landform), you can admire the city's striking Old Town. Its walls were built over various different periods, forging a powerful image of impregnability.

The walls are divided into three areas and distinct architectural and military styles. Out of the three areas, most notable is the Renaissance wall, which serves as the façade of the fort.

This 16th-century fortification was designed by famed architect J.B. Antonelli. It is a perfect example of peninsular military architecture.

THE THREE ENTRANCES INTO THE FORT

The Renaissance-style Portal Fosc (Dark Gate) served as the main entrance until the 18th century and is full of hidden little nooks and crannies where you can get away from it all and pretend that time has stood still. The main gate of the Portal Fosc still bears a commemorative coat of arms belonging to Philip II. A visit to Peñíscola means going back in time and immersing yourself in the Early Middle Ages.

The second entrance into the city is the Gate of Sant Pere (Saint Peter), which was commissioned by Pope Luna in the 15thcentury, providing the city with access from the sea, disrupting the old course of the walls and creating a landing stage which continued to be used up until the 18th century. Then it was walled up and levelled off for military reasons. This gate consists of a large segmental stone arch above whose keystone we find the coat of arms belonging to Pope Luna, which was carved by Filibert Bertalla.

The third entrance into the city is called Santa María (Saint Mary's Gate). It was built by order of Ferdinand VI in 1754, to improve access to the city. Inside the gate lies the Plaza de Les Escaseres, surrounded by walls, affording it an intimate feel so that you can sit back and take in the sense of tranquillity which only Peñíscola can offer. Next to the square stands the Santa Ana Hermitage, which dates back to 1827 and is of great historical interest. A visit to this hermitage is a must as you make your way through the narrow cobblestone streets of the Old Town.