Castillo De Íllora

Castillo de Íllora, located approximately 30 kilometers northwest of Granada on the Sierra Parapanda, was known as the right eye of the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada due to its geostrategic importance and defensive capabilities. First documented in written sources between the 10th and 11th centuries by geographer al-Udri, the castle was constructed during the Caliphate period (9th-10th centuries) with major later expansions and modifications. Its prominence stemmed from exceptional water supply capacity, interconnected defensive systems, and connection to the influential Abencerraje family, allowing it to control passes toward Loja and Córdoba. On June 8, 1486, Catholic Monarchs conquered the fortress, appointing Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba (the Gran Capitán) as its first Christian commander, marking its transition from Islamic to Christian rule.