Top 10 Castles around Lorcha/Orxa
Best castles around Lorcha/Orxa are found in the municipality of Lorcha, also known as L'Orxa, in the Valencian Community of Spain. Situated in the province of Alicante, along the northern edge, to the east of the Serpis River, the area features historical ruins. These sites offer insights into centuries of history, including structures of Muslim origin and feudal castles. The landscape provides a backdrop for exploring these ancient fortifications.
Best castles around Lorcha/Orxa
- The most popular castles is Castell de…
Last updated: July 4, 2026
Castell de Benissili
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Castle of Aielo de Rugat
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Unfortunately, it was destroyed during the War …
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Views of Perputxent Castle
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Castillo de Palma
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Palace House of the Counts of Ròtova
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Viewpoint from where you can see the Castell de L'Orxa, a fortress of Muslim origin dating from the end of the 12th century. Before, a path climbed to the 380 meters of its summit in half a kilometer. Now, visiting the also known Castell de L'Orxa is prohibited. There is a risk of detachments and falls.
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Located in a location with beautiful views, the castle is currently being rehabilitated and cannot be visited.
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This back "terrace" of the castle is a good place to rest, eat and drink.
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The castle of Benissili is historically known as the castle of Alcalà, and this is how it appears in the documents of the time, but it is better known by the name of the castle of Benissili, since this town is the one that is closest to the fortress . The historical function of the castle was to guard and defend the entrance to the Gallinera valley from the interior. This castle follows the normal guidelines of the Muslim castle, with albacar (large courtyard) and celoquia (citadel), but it stands out for its great extension, structural complexity and natural defenses.
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This was the as far as I could get into the Castell as all other points had scaffolding and locked
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beautiful, scenically varied tour
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It is a Baroque urban building built in the second half of the 16th century and remodeled at the end of the 17th century, it is therefore what remains of the original building, the most important architectural heritage element of Ròtova. It is located in the part of the urban center where in the past the town was accessed from the royal road of Xàtiva. Historians say if its original building would not rise on the site occupied by an Arab control tower. Its origin would be an old manor house that covers an entire village block and that still today shows a slender facade on which the noble coat of arms of the family stands out in carved wood. The imperial limestone staircase with a robust column, supporting a canopy made of Arab tiles, also draws attention to the palace. Also pay attention to the pleasant layout of its courtyard enclosed by a battlemented wall, which preserves the tilework of the original 16th century palace. Inside the area of the palace, archaeological excavations have been carried out which have allowed the discovery of ceramic remains dating back to the Iberian era. The building retains some original rooms, being divided into three parts. The external warehouse housed an almássera, the parts of which are now in the Benialí cooperative. Of particular note is the large garden at the back of the palace, of which the remains of the walls that closed the enclosure remain, now partly occupied by the current Passeig del Nou d’Octubre. Since the beginning of 2004, the palace has been the property and heritage of the town of Ròtova, with public use projected with its future restoration that will allow, in addition to the location of the municipal offices, the adaptation of a cultural center with an auditorium and a garden. While the palace is being adapted, the current situation shows a space occupied by the palace has a surface of 1913.06 m2, in which the following spaces can be distinguished: A main building of the 16th-17th century, in the form of "L " with three and one surface per floor of 393.72 m2 and a total surface of 1,181.16 m2 built, which shows masonry walls 60 cm wide, forged with wooden beams and covered with Arabic tiles. In addition to a large access staircase to the main facade, topped with the noble coat of arms of the Comptes de Ròtova. A front access patio of 393.72 m2 with external enclosure formed by a crenellated masonry wall from which access to the garden located in the rear. Back gardens of 742.87 m2, where we will find pine trees. Annex buildings from the beginning of the 20th century, with a floor area of 300.06 m2.
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Beautiful old castle ruins.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular castles to visit around Lorcha/Orxa?
Among the most appreciated castles in the region are Castell de Benissili, historically known as the castle of Alcalà, and the Castle of Aielo de Rugat, a 12th-century site with visible ruins and a well-preserved cistern. Visitors also enjoy the Views of Perputxent Castle, a fortress of Muslim origin that played a strategic role in the region's history.
What is the historical significance of the castles in Lorcha/Orxa?
The castles in Lorcha/Orxa, such as the Castell de Perputxent, are primarily of Muslim origin, dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries. They were crucial defensive structures, later converted into feudal castles after the Christian Reconquista. These sites offer a deep dive into centuries of regional history and military architecture.
Can I visit the Castell de Perputxent, and what makes it special?
Yes, the Castell de Perputxent is a notable site. Declared a Site of Cultural Interest, it's an impressive fortress of Muslim origin with a rectangular layout, square towers, and remnants of battlements. It offers commanding views of the surrounding landscape and is considered one of the most beautiful castles in the Valencian Community, providing a glimpse into medieval history. It's located about 1.5 km from Lorcha's urban center.
Are there other historical castle ruins near Lorcha/Orxa besides Perputxent?
Yes, the Castillo de Palma is another ancient Andalusí fortification in ruins, accessible by a steep path, offering beautiful views from the top. Additionally, the Castell de Barcella, a fortress from the Moorish era, is located on a hill west of Lorcha, near the Barcella ice-house, offering a chance to explore more ancient history.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the castles?
The area around Lorcha/Orxa offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including the Via Verde del Serpis, which starts near Castell de Perputxent. There are also MTB trails and road cycling routes that allow you to explore the natural beauty and historical sites of the region.
Are there hiking trails that lead to or past the castles?
Absolutely. For instance, the Castell de Perputxent is situated near the start of the Serpis Greenway, offering hiking opportunities. You can also find routes like the 'Castell de Benissili – Cova Obrada del Moro loop' which passes by the Castell de Benissili. For more options, explore the hiking guide for Lorcha/Orxa.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles and hike in the region?
While specific seasonal advice isn't provided, generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for exploring historical sites and hiking in the Valencian Community, avoiding the intense heat of summer. These seasons provide comfortable conditions for enjoying both the castles and the surrounding natural landscapes.
Are there any family-friendly options for visiting castles or nearby activities?
Many of the castle ruins, while requiring some walking, can be enjoyed by families. For example, the climb to Castillo de Palma is described as manageable for children aged 7-8 and up. The Serpis Greenway, near Castell de Perputxent, also offers opportunities for scenic walks that can be adapted for families. Always check the difficulty of specific routes.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Lorcha/Orxa?
Visitors frequently highlight the historical significance and the spectacular views offered by the castle ruins. The imposing silhouettes of structures like Castell de Perputxent, the well-preserved cistern at the Castle of Aielo de Rugat, and the extensive remains of Castell de Benissili are often mentioned. The combination of history and natural beauty is a major draw.
Is there parking available near the castle sites?
While specific parking details for each castle are not extensively provided, the Castell de Perputxent is located approximately 1.5 km from the urban center of Lorcha, suggesting that parking might be available within or near the town, requiring a short walk to the ruins. For other sites, it's advisable to check local information or maps for nearby parking areas.
Are the castle sites accessible by public transport?
Information on direct public transport to the specific castle ruins is limited. Lorcha (L'Orxa) itself is a municipality in the province of Alicante. Access to the castles typically involves reaching the town and then proceeding on foot or by private vehicle. For detailed public transport options to Lorcha, it's best to consult regional transport services.
Can I bring my dog to the castle trails?
While specific dog access rules for the castle ruins themselves are not detailed, many outdoor trails in Spain are dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be on a leash. For example, the Via Verde del Serpis, which is near Castell de Perputxent, is generally accessible for dogs. Always check local signage or specific trail regulations before visiting with your pet.
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