Top 3 Castles around Paterna
Best castles around Paterna offer insights into the region's rich history and defensive architecture. This area, located near Valencia, features a variety of historical sites, from ancient watchtowers to well-preserved medieval fortresses. The landscape provides a backdrop for exploring these significant structures. Visitors can discover fortifications that played crucial roles in the past.
Best castles around Paterna
- The most popular castles is Serranos Towers, a historical site that served as one of the main entrances to the city of Valencia. Built in the 14th century, these towers were part of the city's defensive wall and are a significant example of Gothic architecture.
- Another must-see spot is Castell de Benisanó, a well-preserved castle-palace. This building, constructed in the 15th century, combines fortress elements with a stately residence.
- Visitors also love Bétera Castle, Palace of the Boïl, a defensive castle of Islamic origin. This strategic fortress protected the surrounding Muslim farmhouses and is now owned by the Bétera City Council.
- Paterna and its surroundings are known for historical sites, defensive towers, and castle-palaces. The region offers a variety of fortifications to explore, showcasing different architectural styles and historical periods.
- The castles around Paterna are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 500 upvotes and over 200 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
Serranos Towers
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Castell de Benisanó
Highlight • Castle
This building can be considered as a castle-palace, where the fortress and the stately residence are combined. In its primitive aspect, the castle had a drawbridge and a moat; the top of the central tower was triangular and pointed; these elements were removed in later reforms.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Castle Tower
Highlight • Castle
Opposite is the old market.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Bétera Castle, Palace of the Boïl
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Bétera
Highlight • Settlement
Showing Translation
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Bétera stands out from the agricultural landscape with its castle and church tower. It is an ideal passing point on cycling routes through the quiet surrounding roads, making it ideal for a snack stop.
0
0
Under the supervision of Pere Balaguer, construction began in 1392. The towers were designed to be defensive structures at one of the busiest city gates. They were saved from demolition when the city walls were knocked down in 1865 and used as a prison for the nobility between 1586 and 1887. The back of the towers have been opened so that the pointed arches and the vaulted domes can now be seen from the Plaza de los Fueros. The Towers represent an excellent example of gothic architecture. The Serranos Towers were used both as a defensive feature of the city and also as a triumphal arch. Currently, the most outstanding event that takes place at the feet of the towers is the Crida, when on the last Sunday in February the Fallas Queen of Valencia welcomes all Valencians and visitors to the Fallas and calls on them to begin the festivities. The choice of this emblematic place is to symbolise the arrival of outsiders to Valencia centuries ago along the Serranos trail. (https://www.visitvalencia.com/en/what-to-do-valencia/valencian-culture/monuments-in-valencia/serranos-towers)
6
0
Great impressions and views, entry costs 2 euros. It is essential to bring sure-footedness with you, as there are no railings installed in most places and the steps are sometimes very high.
5
0
The former city gate Torres de Serranos is the best-known landmark of Valencia. It provided access to the city from the north-west, i.e. on the roads from Barcelona and Zaragoza, and was inserted into the city wall, which no longer exists. Immediately in front of the gate, the river Turia had to be crossed on a bridge about 100 meters long. The building was erected between 1392 and 1398. The towers are a good 30 meters high. The back wall was removed in the 19th century so the building is now open at the back. For a time it served as a prison. The gate is the only remaining city gate next to the similarly imposing "Torres de Quart".
5
0
Super impressive building. Definitely worth seeing!
5
0
The Serranos towers are, together with the Quart portal, the only old entrances to the wall of Valencia that remain standing. The opulence of its architecture shows more of a symbolic character than a defensive one. Built in the 14th century, they were intended to show everyone who entered the city how important Valencia was in the Middle Ages.
4
0
Benissanó Castle is one of the best preserved in the Valencian Country and was built in the second half of the 15th century on the site of an old Arab farmhouse called Benixanut, thanks to the wishes of the Cavanilles and Villarrasa family, lords of Benissanó. This building can be considered as a castle-palace, where the fortress and the stately residence are combined. In its primitive aspect, the castle had a drawbridge and a moat; the top of the central tower was triangular and pointed; these elements were removed in later reforms.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most significant historical structure in Paterna itself?
The most emblematic historical structure in Paterna is the Tower of Paterna (Torre de Paterna). This watchtower dates back to the Almohad period (12th century) and was a crucial part of Valencia's defensive system. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the Huerta de Valencia. It is surrounded by unique cave-dwellings, offering a glimpse into the town's past.
Which castles around Paterna are particularly well-preserved or notable?
Beyond Paterna's own tower, the Castell de Benisanó is one of the best-preserved castle-palaces in the Valencian Country, dating from the 15th century. In Valencia city, the Serranos Towers are magnificent examples of Gothic architecture and served as an important gateway to the city.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit near Paterna?
Yes, several castles around Paterna are suitable for families. The Serranos Towers in Valencia are considered family-friendly, offering an engaging historical experience. The Castle Tower in Torrent and the Bétera Castle, Palace of the Boïl are also listed as family-friendly options.
What kind of views can I expect from these historical sites?
From the Tower of Paterna, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Huerta de Valencia, the agricultural plain. The Serranos Towers offer excellent vantage points over the city of Valencia, showcasing its historical layout and modern developments.
What other historical sites are there in Paterna besides the main tower?
Paterna has other significant historical sites. The old town hall building, known as "El Castell," now houses the Paterna Ceramics Museum, highlighting the town's rich pottery heritage. The area called Alcázar or Calvario is believed to be the site of a former Muslim fortress, offering historical context and views.
Can I combine a castle visit with outdoor activities like cycling or hiking?
Absolutely. The region around Paterna offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including traffic-free bike rides and gravel biking trails, that pass by or near historical sites. For example, there are routes like the "Tower of Paterna – Bar Buena Vista loop" or the "Ojú Village – Castell de Benisanó loop." You can explore more options in the Traffic-free bike rides around Paterna guide or the Gravel biking around Paterna guide.
What is the best time of year to visit castles in the Paterna region?
The Paterna region, like much of Valencia, enjoys a Mediterranean climate. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) generally offer the most pleasant weather for exploring castles and outdoor activities, with mild temperatures and less intense heat than summer. Winter visits are also possible, as temperatures remain relatively mild.
Are there any castles near Paterna that have unique features or stories?
The Bétera Castle, Palace of the Boïl, of Islamic origin, was a strategic fortress and now houses municipal offices, including a library. The Tower of Paterna is unique for its distinctive truncated cone shape and its association with the nearby cave-dwellings, which were once homes for local families.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the castles and historical sites in this area?
Visitors often appreciate the historical depth and architectural beauty of these sites. For instance, the Serranos Towers are praised for their intact Gothic architecture and their symbolic importance as a gateway to Valencia. The Tower of Paterna offers a tangible connection to the region's Almohad past and provides rewarding panoramic views.
Can I find cafes or restaurants near the castles around Paterna?
Yes, most towns with significant historical sites, such as Paterna, Benisanó, Torrent, and Bétera, will have local cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Valencian cuisine and refreshments. The Bétera area, for example, is noted as an ideal stop for a snack during cycling routes.
Most popular routes around Paterna
Most popular attractions around Paterna
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around Paterna:
