Top 10 Castles around Haro
Best castles around Haro are found in the surrounding areas of this renowned wine-producing region in La Rioja, Spain. Haro itself is known for its historical significance and position within the Ebro River valley. While the town features stately palaces and remnants of 12th-century walls, the most prominent castles are situated in nearby municipalities. These historical sites offer insights into medieval conflicts and architectural heritage of the region.
Best castles around Haro
- The most popular castles is Sajazarra Castle, a castle that was constructed with sandstone masonry in the second half of the 15th century. It is considered one of the best-preserved castles in La Rioja and an artistic wonder of the region.
- Another must-see spot is Castillo de los Velasco, a Gothic-style castle dating from the late 14th century. Visitors can contemplate its exterior while walking along the banks of the Tirón River.
- Visitors also love Anguciana, a settlement with a historical strong tower from the 14th century. This location offers a glimpse into a fortified medieval past with its preserved Torre Fuerte.
- Haro is known for its well-preserved castles, fortified towers, and medieval military enclosures. The region offers a variety of historical structures to explore, from private estates with wineries to ruins with panoramic views.
- The castles around Haro are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 50 upvotes and over 20 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 7, 2026
Sajazarra Castle
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Between the 12th and 13th centuries the town was fortified. In its beginnings there was a single tower that was destroyed to build, during the second half of the fifteenth century, the current castle.
In the center of the fortress is the keep and, although it is not currently visible, it is believed that there was also a defensive moat.
Following the winemaking tradition of the area, today this beautiful complex made up of the castle, the fortification, the Roman bridge and its gardens, is a winery.
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Castillo de los Velasco
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Built with ashlar masonry from the region, the castle stands out for its square-plan keep. In addition, the fortification took advantage of the river as a defense ditch.
Although you cannot visit its interior, it is worth contemplating it from the outside while walking along the banks of the Tirón River.
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Anguciana
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Since the 14th century it was the Lordship of the Salcedo family, who inhabited the Torre Fuerte, of which the south entrance and some loopholes are preserved.
In addition to the Torre Fuerte de los Salcedo (14th century), in the Gothic style, other places of interest in Anguciana are the church of San Martín, from the 16th century, renovated in the 17th century (two chapels in the first section, lower part of the tower, doorway and apse), the 18th century (chapel of the second section) and the 20th century (upper bodies of the tower) and the hermitages of Santa María de Oreca, from the 17th century and of La Esclavitud.
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San Vicente de la Sonsierra Fortress Castle
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Velasco Castle and Cuzcurrita de Río Tirón Bridge
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It is an elegant baroque building from the 18th century, built between 1753 and 1766 from sandstone blocks from nearby quarries.
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Tips from the Community
A beautiful, perfectly restored building. It's a shame it's private and can't be visited.
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The Castillo de los Velasco is a castle built between the 14th and 15th centuries by the powerful Velasco family, who ruled these lands in the Middle Ages. It is the most important and interesting castle of Mena and one of the most striking in the province of Burgos.
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The Castillo fortaleza de San Vicente de la Sonsierra is an impressive medieval castle that rises above the River Ebro. It was built in the 12th century by the Kingdom of Navarre to defend its border with Castile. It was part of a defense line connecting Laguardia and Labastida, and was the largest fortress in Navarre on the Ebro. The castle has a semi-circular shape that adapts to the rock on which it stands. It consists of three walled areas: the albacar, where the houses of the old town stood, the cortijo, where the parish church, the chapel of San Juan and the cemetery are, and the castle itself, with the keep and the bell tower. The castle lost its military importance after the annexation of Navarre by Castile in 1512, and was later used as a quarry and rubbish dump. In the 20th century, people began to realize its historical and artistic value, and several restoration projects were carried out. The castle is now a monument of cultural interest and a tourist attraction
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The panoramic view of the Rioja is wonderful. Below you can also see a medieval bridge over the Ebro.
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We have news of this population since 1093, since it appears in some deeds by which Don Lope, lord of Vizcaya, Guipúzcoa, Álava and Nájera, donated his possessions to his children, among whom was Toda, lady of Anguciana. Since the 14th century it was the Lordship of the Salcedo family, who inhabited the Torre Fuerte, of which the south entrance and some loopholes are preserved. In addition to the Torre Fuerte de los Salcedo (14th century), in the Gothic style, other places of interest in Anguciana are the church of San Martín, from the 16th century, renovated in the 17th century (two chapels in the first section, lower part of the tower, doorway and apse), the 18th century (chapel of the second section) and the 20th century (upper bodies of the tower) and the hermitages of Santa María de Oreca, from the 17th century and of La Esclavitud.
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The Castillo de Sajazarra served as a fortress and palace. This dates from the 15th century and was built by the noble family Velasco.
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Gothic-style castle, dating from the late fourteenth century, located in the center of the Cuzcurrita de Río Tirón municipality, in La Rioja Alta. Built with ashlar masonry from the region, the castle stands out for its square-plan keep. In addition, the fortification took advantage of the river as a defense ditch. Although you cannot visit its interior, it is worth contemplating it from the outside while walking along the banks of the Tirón River.
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In the town of Sajazarra there is a magnificent walled castle. Between the 12th and 13th centuries the town was fortified. In its beginnings there was a single tower that was destroyed to build, during the second half of the fifteenth century, the current castle. In the center of the fortress is the keep and, although it is not currently visible, it is believed that there was also a defensive moat. Following the winemaking tradition of the area, today this beautiful complex made up of the castle, the fortification, the Roman bridge and its gardens, is a winery.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical significance do the castles around Haro hold?
The castles and fortifications in the Haro region offer a deep dive into medieval history, reflecting the strategic importance of the area. Structures like the well-preserved Sajazarra Castle, built in the 15th century, replaced earlier defensive structures and served as fortresses and palaces for noble families. Haro itself was a fortified town, with remnants like El Torreón and the San Bernardo Arch hinting at its 12th-century walls.
Which castles near Haro are particularly well-preserved?
The most notably well-preserved castle near Haro is Sajazarra Castle. Located in the picturesque village of Sajazarra, it is considered one of the most beautiful and intact fortresses in La Rioja, featuring a prominent keep and defensive elements from the 15th century. While privately owned, its exterior and the charming village are highly recommended for a visit.
Are there any castle ruins or historical remnants to explore within Haro itself?
While Haro does not have a fully standing traditional castle, you can explore remnants of its medieval fortifications. The most notable is El Torreón, also known as the Prisoners' Tower, which now houses the Museum of Contemporary Art. The Arch of San Bernardo, a 15th-16th century entrance gate, also stands as a tangible link to the town's ancient walled enclosure.
Are the castles around Haro family-friendly?
Yes, several castles and historical sites around Haro are considered family-friendly. For instance, Sajazarra Castle is located in a charming village recognized as one of 'The most beautiful villages of Spain,' offering a pleasant environment for families to explore. The area around Velasco Castle and Cuzcurrita de Río Tirón Bridge also provides a family-friendly setting with its river and village atmosphere.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The region around Haro offers a variety of outdoor activities that can be combined with castle visits. You can find numerous hiking, mountain biking, and cycling routes. For example, there are several hiking trails around Haro, including routes that pass by historical sites. You can also explore MTB trails or enjoy cycling routes that take you through the scenic landscapes and past some of the region's castles and vineyards.
Are there hiking trails that incorporate castle views or visits?
Yes, the area offers hiking opportunities that allow you to see or visit castles. While specific trails directly entering private castles may be limited, many routes provide excellent views of these historical structures from the surrounding landscape. For instance, you can find various hiking routes around Haro that traverse the region's natural beauty and historical sites, offering glimpses of castles like Castillo de los Velasco from the banks of the Tirón River.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Haro?
The best time to visit the castles around Haro is generally during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these seasons, the weather is typically mild and pleasant for exploring historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities. Summer can be quite hot, while winter might be cooler with a higher chance of rain, though still suitable for visits if you prefer fewer crowds.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see near the castles?
The castles around Haro are often nestled within beautiful natural settings. For example, San Vicente de la Sonsierra Fortress Castle offers panoramic views of the Rioja landscape and the Ebro River. Castillo de los Velasco is situated along the Tirón River, providing picturesque riverside views. The region is characterized by its vineyards, rolling hills, and river valleys, offering a blend of historical architecture and natural beauty.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles in the Haro region?
Visitors frequently appreciate the excellent preservation of castles like Sajazarra Castle and the charming villages they are located in. The opportunity to walk around the walls, imagine medieval life, and enjoy the scenic surroundings, often with a backdrop of vineyards, is a highlight. The historical depth and architectural beauty of these sites, combined with the tranquility of the region, are often mentioned as key attractions.
Are there any strong towers or fortified settlements to visit besides full castles?
Yes, beyond traditional castles, you can visit fortified settlements with significant historical structures. Anguciana, for instance, features a historical strong tower from the 14th century, known as the Torre Fuerte de los Salcedo. This offers a glimpse into a different type of medieval fortification and the defensive architecture of the period.
Most popular attractions around Haro
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