Alarcon

Alarcon is in the province of Cuenca in the Castilla La Mancha region of Spain.

Alarcon sits on a rocky hill almost completely encircled by a loop of the river Jucar. Spotted more than a century ago by a Visigoth prince who thought it would make the perfect location for a castle. Persuaded his father built a castle which is now a parador.

Stone walls and turrets surround the town and castle of Alarcon. One of these turrets sits right on the river and enabled the inhabitants to draw fresh water even during a siege.

After a long occupation by the Moors the castle was taken back by the Spaniards during the Reconquest in 1184 following a nine-month siege.

On entering the village you have the impression of stepping back through the centuries.

Alarcon castle

Alarcon sights

As well as the castle admire the main square with its old town hall and the 16th century San Juan Bautista Church and stroll through the medieval streets. The church houses some excellent murals by Jesus Mateo. These have now been given UNESCO patronage.

The Santa Maria church is a lovely Renaissance church.