Castillo de Cervera

Castillo de Cervera del Río Alhama represents one of La Rioja's most extensive defensive complexes, perched dramatically atop the Peña de San Antonio rocky cliff overlooking the town. Dating from at least the 11th and 12th centuries, this fortress displays evidence of continuous occupation and strategic importance through medieval times. The castle's history includes conquest by Alfonso I of Aragon and Navarre in the 11th century, later passage to the kingdom of Castile, and eventual control by the powerful Juan Ramírez de Arellano family in the 14th century. The fortress features multiple defensive compounds adapted to the dramatic cliff terrain. Recently, in 2024, the Regional Government of La Rioja initiated archaeological excavations to better understand and preserve this significant heritage site.