Storied properties. New custodians.
The term Castillo refers to the impressive Spanish fortresses from the Middle Ages. They are testimonies to the country's tumultuous history of conquest. Their architecture is defined by defensive capabilities, with thick stone walls, high towers, and battlements that still impart an impressive presence today. Often, they are strategically situated on elevated positions. Besides their fortification, they feature representative courtyards, chapels, and hall-like vaults that served the cultural and daily life of their inhabitants. Nowadays, their uses are diverse, ranging from event venues and cultural institutions to historical museums. A famous example is the Alcázar of Segovia.
Similar to other European countries, the differences between Castillo (castle) and a Palacio (palace) are often fluid, and both terms are sometimes used interchangeably since many castles were later converted into representative residences. Which term prevails regionally depends on various local factors. Generally, however, it is referred to as a castle when the defensive character and typical features of a fortified structure remain predominant even after conversion to a palace.