Castillo de Aljau

Castillo de Aljau in Aspe, Alicante, is a medieval fortress designated as a Cultural Heritage Site (BIC) that served as a key defensive structure protecting "Aspe el Nuevo," a 13th-century settlement established after the older Castillo del Río was abandoned. The castle's quadrangular design features corner towers, a central courtyard, and a distinctive angled entryway defended by circular fortifications, representing characteristic Aragonese military architecture. Historical records from Alfonso X El Sabio reference both communities existing simultaneously around 1252. Nearby residential ruins from the 15th century with domestic hearths and storage vessels suggest it functioned as a protected settlement. Following stabilization in 2019 and European FEDER-funded conservation work, the site now welcomes visitors free of charge during weekday hours.