Castle of Miranda de Ebro

Perched atop the scenic La Picota hill in the heart of Miranda de Ebro, Spain, the Castle of Miranda de Ebro (Castillo de Miranda de Ebro) stands as a testament to the region's rich history and architectural prowess. With its commanding views over the city and the Ebro River, this medieval fortress has seen centuries of conflict, transformation, and restoration, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

The History of the Castle of Miranda de Ebro

The origins of the Castle of Miranda de Ebro are shrouded in the mists of time, with evidence suggesting that Miranda de Ebro had a fortification as early as the High Middle Ages. The first documented mention of the castle dates back to 1177, highlighting its strategic importance in the region. However, the current structure began to take shape on October 15, 1358, when Don Tello, Lord of Biscay, requested the land from the Bishopric and Chapter of Calahorra to build a new fortress. The construction was delayed and did not commence until 1449 under the direction of Pedro Sarmiento, Lord of Salinas, and the master stonemason Juan Guas.

The castle witnessed numerous sieges and battles, reflecting its strategic significance on the borderlands. In 1493, Miranda de Ebro was reincorporated into the Lordship of Burgos by decree of the Catholic Monarchs, but the castle remained under the possession of the Counts of Salinas until the 18th century. The fortress endured the ravages of the War of Independence and the Carlist Wars, ultimately falling into ruin by the early 20th century. In 1903, the city council decided to dismantle the castle, using its stones for other constructions, and burying parts of it under the earth.

Restoration and Revival

Despite its dilapidated state, the Castle of Miranda de Ebro was designated a Site of Cultural Interest under the decree of April 22, 1949, and the Spanish Historical Heritage Law of 1985. The castle's revival began in earnest in 1999, coinciding with the ninth centenary of the Miranda de Ebro Charter. This renewed interest led to the formulation of a Master Plan for the castle's recovery. Archaeological excavations commenced in 2006, revealing evidence of earlier settlements dating back to the 8th century.

In 2009, the restoration efforts gained momentum with funding from the European Union's FEDER funds and the Urban Plan of the Miranda de Ebro City Council. The restoration focused on the visible structures, including the barbican and the northern and eastern walls. An exterior elevator was installed to improve accessibility, connecting the castle with the Miranda de Ebro Botanical Garden. The restoration also included the installation of night lighting and the creation of an interpretive center to enhance the visitor experience. In July 2013, the castle was finally opened to the public, transforming it from an obscure ruin into a cultural and tourist landmark.

Exploring the Castle of Miranda de Ebro

Today, visitors to the Castle of Miranda de Ebro can explore its partially restored walls and towers, which offer a glimpse into the fortress's storied past. The northern and eastern walls, along with the towers known as the King’s Battery and the Queen’s Battery, are among the most prominent features. The entrance to the castle is through the barbican, a small defensive system accessed via a zigzag labyrinth on the hillside. The original height of the walls remains unknown, as the surviving sections do not rise much above the original ground level.

Constructed primarily from ashlar stone, the castle's walls showcase the craftsmanship of medieval stonemasons. The restoration efforts have also uncovered medieval tombs and Romanesque remains, likely associated with the original Church of Santa María. One of the most surprising discoveries was the remnants of an earlier 16th-century castle with an Italian-style design, featuring bastions or ravelins.

Visitor Experience

The Castle of Miranda de Ebro is accessible through the CIMA (Centro de Interpretación de Miranda Antigua), located in the historic San Francisco street. Visitors begin their tour at the reception center, which includes the Botanical Garden of Miranda de Ebro, situated on the terraces of La Picota hill. From the Botanical Garden, a series of ramps and a second elevator lead to the entrance of the castle's barbican.

The interpretive center offers insights into the castle's history and the restoration process, providing context for the ruins and artifacts on display. The castle's elevated position offers stunning panoramic views of Miranda de Ebro and the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for photography and reflection.

In conclusion, the Castle of Miranda de Ebro is not just a historical monument but a symbol of resilience and renewal. Its walls, which once echoed with the sounds of battle, now stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to this restored fortress promises a journey through centuries of Spanish history and culture.