When it comes to architecture, Europe tells stories through works dating back centuries. Many of them are the castles of southern Europe. Several considered historical heritage of the continent. You can see them just by buying train tickets from Rome to Florence.
Some of these castles are in ruins, others are still in almost perfect condition. There are many of them in various countries in southern Europe. Those who are fond of history and architecture can take different Portuguese trains to visit those that are in that country, or take others, for example, to Italy.
If you want to include a visit to the castles of southern Europe in your activities, we invite you to learn about some of them below.
1. Castle of the Moors
If Lisbon is among your next destinations during your trip to Europe, then you should reserve a space in your itinerary to visit the Castle of the Moors. This is the second most famous castle in Lisbon, declared a World Heritage Site according to UNESCO.
This castle was conquered by the Christians in 1154 and a chapel was built inside it for those who considered themselves the first settlers. It was rebuilt in the 19th century by King Ferdinand II of Portugal.
Its fortress measures 450 meters, five towers and although you will have to climb more than 500 steps to reach the highest part, many tourists say it is worth it.
2. Castle of Torregalli
Italy is also known worldwide as a country with a lot of architectural wealth and ancient structures that remain almost intact. The Castello di Torregalli is one of the most famous castles in southern Europe for being considered of great historical and artistic interest.
You can find this castle in Florence, at the foot of the hills located between the Greve and the Arno, very close to the border with Scandicci. The first data that is known about this Castello di Torregalli, dates from the year 1427 and was inhabited by one of the wealthiest families of Florence of the time.
3. Castle of Loarre
This is one of the best preserved castles in Europe. It is a Roman fortress, located more than a thousand meters high in Huesca, Spain.
It was built in the 11th century, with walls and foundations specially designed to be used as a fortress, which meant a defense structure for the time. It is also surrounded by several walls of towers and has been used as a location to record some movies, including also the television series: “The Ministry of Time”.
4. Trakoscan Castle
Adorned with vineyards, hills and green vegetation, Trakoscan Castle is one of the most visited by tourists who go to Croatia. Although it is located a bit away from the more urban part of Varaždin County, it is definitely worth a visit.
It is a great fortress that is estimated to have been built in the 13th century, however, most of its restorations and modifications were carried out at the end of the 19th century. The white of its walls can be seen from several places, since it is located on a high hill. It is Gothic in style and features furnishings from the Rococo period.
5. Tal Virtu Castle
Located on top of Tal Virtu, this castle is one of the most imposing in the Rabat region, in the northern part of Malta. Currently, it is not open for tourists, however, it is well worth visiting and taking some impressive photos of its facade.
In addition to delighting yourself with its imposing structure, you will witness a privileged view of its surroundings. For many years, it was abandoned, until it was acquired as private property in the mid-1990s and its owners did some restoration.
Europe gives both its locals and its tourists scenarios that seem to be frozen in time, full of architectural works like these castles worthy of any fantasy story that we have read in books or seen in movies.
If you are considering traveling to the old continent soon, consider taking a look at these castles in southern Europe.