Villalonso Castle

Villalonso Castle stands as a remarkable example of 15th-century military architecture in the province of Zamora, Spain. Situated near the village of Villalonso, this hill castle occupies a strategic position on a plain visible from the surrounding countryside, including views towards Tiedra Castle on the northern horizon. Its preservation status makes it one of the best conserved castles in the region, reflecting the defensive and residential needs of the late medieval period.

The castle's origins trace back to an earlier fortification established in 1235 by the Order of Alcántara, a military religious order active during the Reconquista. This initial fortress laid the groundwork for the more extensive 15th-century construction that defines the castle today. The current structure was primarily built in the late medieval period, specifically the 15th century, under the direction of Juan de Ulloa and his wife María de Sarmiento, whose coats of arms prominently adorn the main entrance.

Architectural features and design

Villalonso Castle exemplifies the style of stately castles erected in the border provinces of Valladolid and Palencia during the 15th century. It has an almost square ground plan with robust ashlar masonry walls that are reinforced at the corners by slender cubos (corner towers). These towers rest on cylindrical bases and are topped with machicolations and bartizans, which provided defenders with vantage points and means to repel attackers.

The castle's curtain walls feature centrally placed turrets that enhance its defensive capabilities. The most notable architectural element is the powerful square keep (torre del homenaje) projecting from the northern curtain wall. This keep, fortified with battlements and machicolations, flanks the main entrance gate, forming a formidable defensive complex. The entrance itself is strategically positioned between the keep and an adjacent tower, creating a protected gateway into the castle’s interior courtyard or bailey.

Surrounding the main enclosure are the remains of an outer defensive enclosure and a shallow moat, which was originally a wide ditch. Archaeological excavations revealed that this moat was enlarged and deepened in the early 16th century, reflecting the castle's ongoing military importance during periods of conflict.

Historical context and significance

The castle’s history is intertwined with the turbulent political and military events of late medieval Spain. Initially controlled by the Order of Alcántara in the 13th century, the site evolved into a noble residence and fortress under the ownership of Juan de Ulloa in the 15th century. Ulloa established a hereditary entail (mayorazgo) in 1470 and fortified the castle as part of his family’s legacy.

During the Castilian Succession War, Ulloa defended Villalonso Castle on behalf of the Portuguese faction but was killed in 1476. His widow, María de Sarmiento, negotiated a surrender that allowed her to retain ownership of the castle, receiving a royal pardon from the Catholic Monarchs. This rare political arrangement ensured the castle remained in the family despite the conflict’s outcome.

Their son, Diego de Ulloa, later played a role in the War of the Communities, a rebellion against the crown in the early 16th century. Sentenced to death for his participation, Diego avoided execution by paying a substantial fine and eventually regained his estates, including Villalonso Castle. He further personalized the castle by adding his coat of arms above those of his parents, symbolizing continuity and stewardship.

In the 20th century, the castle was owned by Ángela María Téllez-Girón, Duchess of Osuna, and served as a filming location for medieval-themed movies such as "Robin and Marian" in the 1970s. It was sold in 1984 to private owners and subsequently closed for several years until restoration efforts began in the 21st century.

Archaeological discoveries and restoration

Extensive archaeological investigations conducted between 2006 and 2011 by the Castilla y León Heritage Foundation have shed light on the castle’s complex history and construction phases. Excavations uncovered remnants of earlier domestic buildings dating from the 11th century through the 15th century, including underground silos likely used for grain storage by the Order of Alcántara.

Within the castle’s courtyard, archaeologists discovered a refuse pit containing fragments of kitchenware, tableware, animal bones, and glass bracelets from the 15th and early 16th centuries, providing valuable insight into the daily life of its inhabitants. The restoration work carefully preserved the outer defensive walls and the castle’s characteristic architectural features, such as the crenellated battlements and machicolated towers, while stabilizing the structure for future generations.

The castle today and visitor information

Today, Villalonso Castle remains a well-preserved historical monument accessible by appointment. Although it is not signposted and lacks public facilities, the castle’s imposing silhouette and architectural integrity make it a significant cultural heritage site in Zamora. Its location on the outskirts of the small village, surrounded by open fields, offers visitors a glimpse into Spain’s medieval past and the military architecture of the late medieval period.

The castle’s setting and preserved structures provide an evocative atmosphere for those interested in medieval fortifications, noble residences, and the history of the borderlands between Castile and Portugal. While public access is limited, the site’s conservation ensures that its historical and architectural value endures as a testament to the region’s rich heritage.