Castillo de San José occupies the highest point of El Castell de Guadalest, an 11th-century fortress built during the Islamic period atop a dramatic rocky outcrop. This structure is divided into distinct sections—one serving as a local cemetery and the other for population defense—and was originally a Muslim settlement before becoming part of the Crown of Aragon, with most existing remains dating from Pedro IV's era. A severe 1644 earthquake and a mine explosion during the War of Succession caused significant damage. Purchased from the town's Marquises in 1993 and declared a Historic-Artistic monument, the fortress uniquely encompasses the entire walled village including the parish church and notable museums.
