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Castle of Loarre

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Castle of Loarre (Spain)

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The Castle of Loarre is a memorable Romanesque fortress in the province of Huesca, Aragon, considered one of the best-preserved examples of its kind in Europe. Built in the 11th century under King Sancho III of Navarre and expanded by his son Sancho Ramírez, it served as a vital frontier stronghold during the Reconquista. The castle is strategically perched on a limestone outcrop at an altitude of 1,071 meters, offering panoramic views over the Hoya de Huesca plain. Its architecture features a double perimeter wall with cylindrical towers and the magnificent Church of San Pedro, which is home to an early Romanesque dome and intricately carved capitals. As the Christian advance moved south, Loarre lost its military importance and became a religious house for Augustinian canons. Declared a National Monument in 1906, it gained international fame as a primary filming location for Ridley Scott's 2005 epic 'Kingdom of Heaven'.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C226912172019161163
Rain mm635161686550323244587152

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Loarre Castle is widely accessible, with multiple levels and an impressive inner courtyard. The chapel and the knights' hall are highlights.
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Typical hours
Typically, the castle is open from 10:00 to 19:00, with shorter hours in winter. It is often closed on Mondays except holidays.
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Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the grounds; flash may be prohibited in the chapel. Commercial use requires a permit.
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Time needed
Allow 2 hours for the castle and the views of the Pyrenean foothills. Those wanting to explore the surroundings should plan half a day.
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Combine with
Combine the visit with the monastery of San Juan de la Peña, only 20 km away. The city of Huesca with its cathedral is also an option.
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Getting there
The castle is reachable via the A-132 then A-1603. There is parking at the foot of the hill, from where a 10-minute climb starts.
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Insider tip
Take time to enjoy the castle's tranquility - it's nearly empty in the morning. Sturdy footwear is essential due to stone steps.

Geography

Coordinates
42.32500, -0.61200

Facts

  • Construction initiated by Sancho III of Navarre in the 11th century
  • Widely regarded as the best-preserved Romanesque castle in Europe
  • Perched at an elevation of 1,071 meters above sea level
  • Designated as a National Monument in Spain since 1906
  • Primary setting for Ridley Scott's 2005 film Kingdom of Heaven
  • The interior church of San Pedro was completed around 1094

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Castillo de LoarreCastillo de Loarre<1 km · SWExplore →
San Juan de la PeñaSan Juan de la Peña22 km · NExplore →
Kismayo Coastal ReliefKismayo Coastal Relief26 km · NEExplore →
HuescaHuesca27 km · SEExplore →
JacaJaca28 km · NExplore →
Kismayo Grand MosqueKismayo Grand Mosque32 km · NEExplore →
Kismayo WatersKismayo Waters32 km · NEExplore →
Bajuni IslandsBajuni Islands37 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Castle of Loarre (1)

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What makes Loarre Castle so special?
It is considered the best-preserved Romanesque fortress in Europe.
Was a famous movie filmed there?
Yes, Ridley Scott's movie 'Kingdom of Heaven' was partially filmed here.
Is there a parking lot?
Yes, there is a free parking lot near the visitor center at the foot of the castle.
How is the path to the castle?
From the parking lot, a short, slightly uphill foot path leads to the fortress.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are not allowed inside the castle, only on a leash in the outdoor areas.
Castle of Loarre: where is it located?
Castle of Loarre is located in Galicia, Spain.
Castle of Loarre: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Castle of Loarre: why is it worth visiting?
The Castle of Loarre is a memorable Romanesque fortress in the province of Huesca, Aragon, considered one of the best-preserved examples of its kind in Europe.
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