The architecture of Spain consists of multiple elements from different cultures living there for many generations. Castillo de Almodóvar in Cordoba, Andalusia, is a perfect example of the multicultural aspect of some of the buildings in the country. The history of the castle goes back to the Romans in Spain who stayed there for hundreds of years until the 5th century. Historians believe that the original structure in the mountain of El Redondo was definitely of Roman origin. The Romans most likely built the castle to oversee the plateau and town below. Moreover, the castle also served Romans as a lookout tower to see the approaching enemy beforehand.
Many excavations suggest that during the Roman times, the castle was highly important for commerce and trade. The castle towered over the Guadalquivir River through which the ships could navigate through. Furthermore, it was near silver mines which the Romans exploited greatly and effectively. To a point where the town issued its own silver medal coin.
Starting from the 8 century until the 13th century Castillo de Almodóvar served as the house of Andalusian kings. The Moors refortified the castle, built more lookout towers, and designed it in classic Arabian architecture.
The name of Castillo de Almodóvar has an interesting story. The Andalusians built the castle in the 8th century after conquering Spain. Primarily, they called the castle al-Mudawar which meant “round” or “safe.” However, as time passed, the name evolved into Almodóvar and even gave the town nearby its name as well.
According to historical sources, the last Andalusian king died in the castle when the Spaniards took the castle in the early 13th century. After the Andalusians left Spain, the castle became the possession of the Castillian Kings. These kings altered the castle in many ways but the biggest renovation came in the 20th century. The ancestors of the current owners renovated the castle towers with great diligence. Today, the castle is a popular site among locals and tourists showcasing the harmonious multicultural aspect of Andalusia.
