What makes Peñíscola so special?
Its Castle. The castle of Peñíscola is a symbol of the town and one of the best preserved in the Valencian Community. Its imposing figure overlooking the sea is an iconic image.
Its old town. The narrow cobbled streets, the white houses and the charming squares transport visitors to another era.
Its beaches. Peñíscola has beaches with crystal-clear waters and golden sand, ideal for relaxing and practising water sports.
Its natural environment. The Sierra de Irta, a natural park that surrounds Peñíscola, offers impressive landscapes and hiking routes.
In this blog I will cover the first 2 special characteristics that I’ve highlighted.
History of the town
Origins and Middle Ages:
Ancient settlement. Evidence of human settlements have been found in Peñíscola since prehistoric times.
Arab rule. During the Muslim domination, Peñíscola became a strategic fortress.
The Order of the Temple. At the end of the 13th century, the Knights Templar became strong in Peñíscola, enlarging and refortifying the castle.
Pope Luna. Without a doubt, one of the most outstanding episodes in the history of Peñíscola was the stay of Pope Luna (Benedict XIII) in the castle. After the Western Schism, Pope Luna took refuge in Peñíscola, making the castle his papal seat.
Modern times and the present day:
16th century. Peñíscola suffered attacks by Barbary pirates, which led to the construction of new walls and fortifications.
Tourist development. From the 20th century onwards, Peñíscola began to develop as a tourist destination, thanks to its beaches, its historical heritage and its Mediterranean climate.
World Heritage Site. Although it does not have this official distinction, Peñíscola is considered by many to be an authentic historical and cultural treasure.
The Peñíscola Castle
The Peñíscola Castle is much more than just a building; it is the historic heart of the town and a symbol of its rich and complex history. Perched atop a rocky outcrop, it dominates the Mediterranean Sea and offers breathtaking panoramic views.
Construction of the castle began in the 13th century, under the rule of the Order of the Temple. These warrior monks turned it into an impregnable fortress, extending and reinforcing its walls. After the dissolution of the Order, the castle passed into the hands of the Crown of Aragon.
However, it was during the 14th century that the castle reached its maximum splendour thanks to the figure of Pope Luna (Benedict XIII). After the Western Schism, Pope Luna took refuge in Peñíscola, converting the castle into his papal seat. During his stay, important enlargement and embellishment works were carried out, giving the castle a palatial character.
Architecture and outstanding features
The castle’s architecture is a mixture of styles, from early Romanesque to Gothic and Renaissance, reflecting the different stages of its construction and the various cultural influences it received. Some of the most outstanding elements are:
- The walls. Imposing and robust, they offer impregnable protection and spectacular panoramic views.
- The keep. The highest tower of the castle, from where you can enjoy a 360-degree view of Peñíscola and its surroundings.
- La Sala Capitular. A large, bright space that served as a meeting room for the Knights Templar and later as a papal chapel.
- The papal apartments. Decorated with frescoes and paintings, these rooms offer an insight into the daily life of Pope Luna.
Breathtaking panoramic views
From the top of the castle walls, a panorama of breathtaking beauty unfolds. The Mediterranean Sea stretches as far as the eye can see, while at your feet stretches the town of Peñíscola with its old quarter and beaches. At sunset, the spectacle is even more impressive, with the sun tingeing the sky with warm colours.
