Peñíscola Castle

Peñíscola Castle is a 14th-century fortress built by the Knights Templar that crowns a dramatic rocky peninsula jutting into the Mediterranean Sea in the province of Castellón, northern Valencia, Spain. The castle sits at the highest point of the peninsula, approximately 64 metres above sea level, commanding sweeping views over the surrounding coastline. Construction began in 1294 on the site of an earlier Moorish fortification, and the castle retains much of its original Gothic-Templar character: massive stone walls, compact design, and an orientation calculated to dominate approach from both land and sea. The castle gained lasting historical prominence in the early 15th century as the final residence of Pope Benedict XIII — known as 'Papa Luna' — who retreated here after being deposed by the Council of Constance and maintained his papacy in exile until his death in 1422. His papal apartments within the castle, including the Sala del Papa Luna and his private chapel with original Gothic decoration, can be visited today. The broader walled old town of Peñíscola below the castle is one of the best-preserved medieval settlements on the Spanish Mediterranean coast: whitewashed stone streets, a sea gate opening directly to the shore, and a 16th-century church, all enclosed within the old city walls. The town also served as a filming location for scenes in the television series Game of Thrones, specifically standing in for the city of Meereen. From the castle's upper terraces, photographers can frame the peninsula curving into the sea with the coast and mountains beyond. A visit to the castle and walled old town typically takes 2–3 hours. Peñíscola is accessible by car from Castellón or Valencia, and seasonal bus services connect the town with coastal resorts in the province.