The Moors then dominated the region for the following seven centuries, between 711 until 1492.In 1092, the castle was controlled by the Almoravid family of the Berber Dynasty. It is strategically located on the ancient roadway Via Augusta leading from Rome across the Pyrenees and down the Mediterranean coast to Cartagena and Cádiz.
The castle was overseen by a Governor who was always selected from one of the most important noble families of Valencia.The fortress also played a part in the Revolt of the Brotherhood (1519-1522) when the artisan guilds revolted against King Charles I of Valencia.Over the years, the castle has frequently suffered damage. Although it is known as a castle, it is in reality a fortification, one that is divided into two parts, the lower known as the Castell Menor and upper called the Castell Major.This fortress is known to have been inhabited by the Carthaginians in the second century B.C. This gate was built during the Islamic period in the 10th century and has a L-shaped defensive layout. The history of the fortification is closely tied to its proximity to the Vía Augusta, which led from Rome to Cadiz and left Xátiva in a strategic position. From there a road and steps lead up to the Lower Castle and then on to the Upper Castle, whose battlements provide excellent views over the surrounding area.The part of the fortress which is the best preserved and which contains the majority of the things to see is the Castell Major. The Castle is built on Moorish, Roman and Iberian remains, and is set in beautiful surroundings, promising magnificent views over the city.
The gate that is there today dates from the 15th century. Technically, there are in fact two castles, known respectively as the “Menor” ( minor) and the “Major”. They extend from east to west, perched across the top of the magnificent mountain, and are linked by sizable and impressive historic structures.
The family provided two popes, Callixtus III (14561458), and Alexander VI (14921503), the latter being the father of the infamous Lucrezia Borgia. Nearby is the beautiful chapel of Saint George, while close by is the First Gate of the Upper Castle.Continuing up the staircase, one comes to the Second Gate, with a tower on either side. All that remains of this tower is the window with its picturesque view The castle was overseen by a Governor who was always selected from one of the most important noble families of Valencia.The fortress also played a part in the Revolt of the Brotherhood (1519-1522) when the artisan guilds revolted against King Charles I of Valencia.Over the years, the castle has frequently suffered damage. Located on a beautiful, imposing mountain above the town of Xàtiva, 34 miles south of Valencia, Xàtiva Castle predates Roman times. Hannibal took Himilce as his wife to seal an alliance between the Carthaginians and Iberians. The family provided two popes, Callixtus III (14561458), and Alexander VI (14921503), the latter being the father of the infamous Lucrezia Borgia. We have visited many castles throughout Europe, and Xativa Castle is certainly one of our favourites. During my travels I was fascinated by the history and beauty of castles and I created this space to share my passion with you.
The damage to the castle was so extensive that it had to be rebuilt. Although it is known as a castle, it is in reality a fortification, one that is divided into two parts, the lower known as the Castell Menor and upper called the Castell Major.This fortress is known to have been inhabited by the Carthaginians in the second century B.C. This magnificent castle, located about 40km and an hour away from Valencia, in the city of Xàtiva, is located on the