Peñíscola Castle: Built in the 13th Century by the Knights Templar on Arab Ruins

#hellohalloween #PeñíscolaCastle Perched on a 64-meter rocky outcrop on Spain’s Mediterranean coast in Castellón, Peñíscola Castle, dubbed the "Papa Luna Castle," is a marvel of medieval architecture. Erected between 1294 and 1307 by the Knights Templar on remnants of an Arab fortress and Roman bastion, this 230-meter perimeter stronghold, with 20-meter-high stone walls and barrel vaults, was built to withstand sieges. In 1411, during the Western Schism, Aragonese antipope Benedict XIII, "Papa Luna," made it his papal palace and library, residing there until 1423. He held court in its throne room and prayed in the austere Templar Basilica, defiantly resisting exile. In the 16th century, Philip II fortified it against Barbary pirates, with Italian engineer Juan Bautista Antonelli adding artillery defenses. Now restored and open to the public, the castle blends history and stunning sea views from its battlements, with intriguing dungeons and courtyards whispering tales of power and faith. Featured as Meereen in "Game of Thrones," it draws countless visitors. A Valencian gem, it merges past and present with salty breezes. #peñíscolacastle