Belmonte

Upon a hill in the province of Cuenca, within Spain's Castilla-La Mancha region, Belmonte is a town where history is etched into every stone. Its medieval castle, a distinctive pentagonal structure with six round towers, commands the landscape, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of Castilian nobility and conflict.

Beyond the castle walls, Belmonte's old town, declared a Property of Cultural Interest, invites exploration with its winding streets and traditional Manchego architecture. The town is a stop on the famous 'Route of Don Quixote,' connecting it to the literary adventures of Miguel Cervantes' iconic character.

## From Marquisate to Modern Day Belmonte's history is inextricably linked to its formidable castle, a 15th-century construction ordered by Don Juan Pacheco, the first Marquis de Villena. Pacheco, a powerful nobleman during the reign of King Henry IV of Castile, sought to fortify his territory during a period of intense infighting. Construction began in 1456, likely under the architect Juan Guas, though the castle remained incomplete upon Pacheco's death.

After centuries of partial neglect and abandonment, the castle was largely ruinous by the early 19th century. A significant restoration project commenced in 1857 under the patronage of Eugenia de Guzmán, better known as Empress Eugénie de Montijo, the last Empress of France and an heiress of the Villena house. Her architect, Alejandro Sureda, meticulously preserved the exterior's original style while updating the interior to 19th-century tastes, even incorporating brick galleries overlooking the inner courtyard. Empress Eugénie reportedly spent over 500,000 pesetas on the restoration before the fall of the Second French Empire in 1870 halted the work.

Throughout its existence, Belmonte Castle has served various roles: a noble residence, a strategic stronghold, and even a prison during the Peninsular War and the Spanish Civil War. It was declared a historic monument in 1931 and is now a Bien de Interés Cultural, signifying its importance as a cultural landmark. The castle reopened to the public in 2010 after extensive restoration, allowing visitors to explore its unique architecture and delve into its layered past.

The undisputed center of attention in Belmonte is the Castillo de Belmonte, a 15th-century fortress known for its unique pentagonal plan and six round towers. Visitors can explore its interior, including the keep, ramparts, and parade ground, and admire the Gothic and Mudéjar architectural elements, such as carved ceilings and decorative plasterwork. The north tower offers expansive views of the town and surrounding countryside.

Below the castle, the town's historic center features the Collegiate Church of San Bartolomé, a Gothic church also from the 15th century. Its choir stalls, originally from the Cuenca Cathedral, are a notable feature. Other points of interest include the Plaza de Enrique Fernandez, the 17th-century Hermitage of Our Lady of Grace, and the 15th-century Convent of the Trinitarians. The Palacio del Infante Don Juan Manuel, once an inner fortified palace, has been restored and now operates as a four-star hotel and spa. You can also seek out the house where the poet Fray Luis de León was born.

The most pleasant times to visit Belmonte are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October). Temperatures are mild, making it comfortable for exploring the castle and town, and there are fewer crowds than in summer. Summers (June to August) can be hot, with average daily highs above 82°F (28°C) and July being the hottest month, reaching around 89°F (32°C). Winters (November to February) are very cold and partly cloudy, with January being the coldest month, averaging 32°F (0°C) to 49°F (9°C).

Belmonte is located approximately 150 km from Madrid and 100 km from Cuenca. The most convenient way to reach the town is by car, using the N-420 road from either city. The drive from Madrid takes about an hour and a half, offering scenic views of the La Mancha landscape. Bus connections are also available from Cuenca and Madrid.

The Castillo de Belmonte is open to the public, with guided tours highly recommended to appreciate its architecture and history. Entrance fees are typically around 9€ for adults, with reduced rates for children and groups. Belmonte is a walkable town, with many attractions, including the castle and the Collegiate Church, accessible on foot.