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La Mota Castle

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La Mota Castle (Spain)

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The Castillo de la Mota in Medina del Campo is one of the most iconic and well-preserved fortresses in Spain. Built primarily during the 15th century on an artificial mound (mota), the castle is famous for its distinctive red-brick construction, a hallmark of the military Mudéjar style. Under the reigns of John II and the Catholic Monarchs, it was transformed into one of the most advanced defensive structures of its time, featuring deep moats and a sophisticated outer wall designed to withstand artillery fire. The massive Keep (Torre del Homenaje), standing nearly 40 meters tall, dominates the landscape and highlights the castle's strategic importance. Throughout its history, it served as a royal residence, an arsenal, and a state prison, famously holding high-profile inmates like Cesare Borgia, who made a daring escape from its heights. The castle was a favorite residence of Queen Isabella the Catholic and played a key role during the Castilian civil wars. Today, it is open to visitors, offering guided tours of its battlements, underground galleries, and historic halls.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C4471014192222181374
Rain mm473645554732151527655644

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
La Mota Castle in Medina del Campo is open to visitors and can be seen both inside and outside. The impressive red brick tower is the landmark.
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Typical hours
The castle is typically open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Monday is closed.
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Photography
Photography is allowed, but without flash in the interior rooms. The exterior area and the castle walls offer great photo opportunities.
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Time needed
A visit takes about one and a half hours. For climbing the tower, allow an additional 20 minutes.
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Combine with
Combine the visit with a tour of the old town of Medina del Campo. The Plaza Mayor and the castle are also worth a stroll.
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Getting there
The castle is centrally located in Medina del Campo and is reachable on foot from the train station. Parking is available near the castle walls.
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Insider tip
Visit the castle in the late afternoon when the red brick facade glows in the light. A visit to the nearby Museum of History of Medina del Campo complements the trip.

Geography

Coordinates
41.30610, -4.70720

Facts

  • The current structure was largely completed between 1440 and 1475.
  • The Keep stands 40 meters tall and features walls over 3 meters thick at the base.
  • Cesare Borgia famously escaped the castle prison in 1506 by rappelling down a rope.
  • The castle was declared a National Monument of Spain in 1904.
  • The fortress features a double perimeter wall and an extensive network of underground tunnels.
  • Queen Isabella the Catholic used the castle as a major administrative hub for her kingdom.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Medina del CampoMedina del Campo17 km · WExplore →
Castle of CocaCastle of Coca18 km · SEExplore →
Laguna de DueroLaguna de Duero31 km · NExplore →
CuéllarCuéllar35 km · EExplore →
Arroyo de la EncomiendaArroyo de la Encomienda35 km · NExplore →
ValladolidValladolid39 km · NExplore →
Alcázar of SegoviaAlcázar of Segovia62 km · SEExplore →
City Walls of ToroCity Walls of Toro62 km · NWExplore →

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 La Mota Castle (7)

Monasterio de Santa María de la Mejorada⛪ religious

A former Hieronymite monastery in Olmedo characterized by Mudéjar architecture.

Parque Temático del Múdejar de Olmedo🎡 recreation

A theme park featuring scale miniature models of significant Mudéjar buildings.

Convento e Iglesia de La Merced⛪ religious

A religious complex in Olmedo consisting of a former convent and a church.

Casa del Reloj🏺 historical

A prominent historical building featuring a characteristic clock in Olmedo.

Muralla de Olmedo🏺 historical

The remains of the medieval city wall that once surrounded Olmedo.

Iglesia de San Andrés⛪ religious

A historic church in Olmedo that is an example of local Mudéjar architecture.

Piscina Municipal de Olmedo🎡 recreation

Piscina Municipal de Olmedo, an outdoor swimming pool in the town of Olmedo near Castillo de La Mota.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is Castillo de la Mota famous for?
It is famous for its distinctive red brick architecture and its link to Isabella I of Castile.
Where exactly is the castle located?
In Medina del Campo, in the province of Valladolid, Castile and León.
Can you visit the keep?
Yes, the Torre del Homenaje can be climbed during special guided tours.
Did the castle serve as a prison?
Yes, famous prisoners like Cesare Borgia were held here.
Is there an entry fee?
Access to the exterior grounds is free; interior visits and tower tours require a fee.
La Mota Castle: where is it located?
La Mota Castle is located in Galicia, Spain.
La Mota Castle: what is there to see?
Highlights include Monasterio de Santa María de la Mejorada, Parque Temático del Múdejar de Olmedo, Convento e Iglesia de La Merced.
La Mota Castle: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
La Mota Castle: why is it worth visiting?
The Castillo de la Mota in Medina del Campo is one of the most iconic and well-preserved fortresses in Spain.
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