CASTLES EL BURGO DE OSMA

Castillo de Osma, built in the 10th century in El Burgo de Osma, Soria, occupies a strategic location between the Ucero and Abión rivers, adapting perfectly to the rocky hillside terrain. The fortress was erected by Count Gonzalo Tello, incorporating some Roman structures, and held Muslim origins before passing to Christian control in 1011. It endured numerous attacks during its first conquest in 912 through its last siege in 1088, serving as a crucial defensive stronghold on the middle Duero frontier. The castle features three distinct walled enclosures with remnants of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, though currently undergoing restoration with limited public access. The site's hilltop position offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and proximity to the ancient Roman city of Uxama.

Atalaya de Navapalos is a 10th-century Islamic watchtower located in the upper portion of Navapalos village near El Burgo de Osma in Soria province. This circular stone structure stands more than ten meters tall with a distinctive protective base built from rows of regular masonry that narrow with height. The tower maintained visual communication with the Atalaya del Enebral and Castle of Gormaz, forming part of an extensive medieval surveillance network along the Duero river. Documented in the Cantar del Mío Cid, the tower's final use as a dovecote helped preserve its structure. Though abandoned, it remains freely accessible and fairly consolidated, offering a glimpse into Islamic-era frontier defense strategies.