CASTLES ASTURIAS

Castillo de Priorio, also known as Castillo de Las Caldas, is a crenellated medieval fortress located near Oviedo in Asturias. Rising dramatically from a small hill surrounded by the Gafo River, the castle features two prominent towers flanking its main structure and is set amid dense vegetation that adds to its romantic appeal. Built during the medieval period, its exact construction date remains uncertain, though it is believed to have played a crucial defense role in the region. Though not currently open to the public due to private ownership, the castle's well-preserved state showcases medieval Asturian military architecture.

Palace of Cienfuegos de Peñalba rises on a hillside near Pola de Allande in Asturias' Allande municipality, blending 15th-century construction with later Renaissance refinements. Originally built on the site of an ancient fort by the Ponce family and subsequently acquired by the Counts de Luna and Cienfuegos family, the palace underwent significant 16th-century renovations and 18th-century modifications. Its L-shaped design is marked by three solid non-crenellated towers that convey strong defensive character, containing 23 bedrooms alongside formal hall, kitchen, living spaces and chapel. Protected as a Culturally Important Monument since 1994, the palace exemplifies Asturian architectural heritage combining medieval and renaissance influences.

Palacio de la Torre de Niévares is a fortified tower palace complex in Villaviciosa, Asturias, combining residential and defensive architecture characteristic of northern Spanish nobility. Composed of a casona, chapel, stables, and surrounding crenellated walls of remarkable height and appearance, the structure likely dates from 1501, a date inscribed on its main facade, when it served as the stronghold of the Concha family. Originally built as a fortified tower-house with defensive walls, the palace eventually hosted the notable 17th-18th century sculptor Antonio de Borja, whose religious works grace churches throughout the province. Elevated on a commanding hillside position and featuring the imposing stone walls characteristic of Asturian noble residences, the well-preserved structure continues in private residential use, representing an important example of medieval tower-palace architecture in the northern Iberian peninsula.