Gormaz, Atienza and Jadraque el Cid Champion from Madrid

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1
  Madrid

  Our tour starts in Madrid and starts from the meeting point.

  10 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 2

  Gormaz Castle, the largest Caliph Fortress in Europe Start your adventure in the majestic Gormaz Castle, located on a strategic promontory on the Douro River. Built in the 10th century by Muslims, it was for a long time the largest caliph fortress in Europe. With a length of more than 1 kilometer, its walls were designed to withstand the harshest sieges. This castle was key in the campaigns of the Champion ID during his time as warden under King Sancho II. Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar defended these lands as a border between the Christian and Muslim kingdoms. Its walls, towers and caliber gate seem to whisper the stories of the battles and pacts that were woven here. As you walk through its battlements, you can imagine the war tactics and constant vigilance this place demanded. Don’t miss the stunning views of the Douro Valley, which were as vital to the defense of the castle as they are today to enjoy its beauty.

  1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 3

  Atienza, a fortified villa that was a key point in medieval history. Its castle, known as the Castle of Atienza, stands on a steep crag that dominates the entire region. The strategic location of the castle made it a crucial fortress in the Reconquest, and its history is intrinsically linked to the Champion ID. During his banishment, Cid passed through Atienza, where his presence left its mark on local legends. The castle, originally built in the 11th century, withstood numerous sieges and attacks thanks to its privileged position and ingenious defensive architecture. Explore the tribute tower and the ruins of its walls, which evoke the stories of knights and battles that defined the medieval border. In the historic center, the cobblestone streets and Romanesque churches seem to transport visitors to the time of the Cid. His stint in Atienza is said to have inspired romances and gestural songs celebrating his honor and bravery.

  1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 4

  The tour ends in Jadraque, the imposing Castillo del Cid, a fortress that dominates the valley of the Henares River. Although the present castle was built in the 15th century, it stands on the foundations of an earlier fortification that was used during the Cid campaigns in the region. This castle proudly bears his name, perpetuating the connection with the legendary knight. The castle’s elevated position made it a strategic point of defense as for the control of commercial and military routes. The views from its walls are spectacular: a horizon stretching from the farm fields to the nearby mountains, as the Cid and his troops would have seen. According to tradition, Cid used this fortress as a temporary base during his raids through the Henares Valley. As you explore the castle, you can imagine strategy meetings and preparations for campaigns, while feeling the presence of history on every stone.

  1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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