Parador de Sigüenza

Spain – Castilla la Mancha – Guadalajara – Sigüenza

12th-century medieval castle

4-star

The ancient town of Sigüenza is situated to the northeast of Guadalajara, and was under the rule successively of the Romans, Visigoths, Moors and Castilians. Among the many historic buildings is the Gothic cathedral and the 12th-century castle, built on the site of a Moorish castle taken in 1123 by Ferdinand I and El Cid. The castle then became the fortress-palace of the bishops of Sigüenza, and in the 14th century it was the prison of Blanche of Bourbon, consort of Pedro the Cruel. The castle is now the magnificent Parador de Sigüenza, and its austere fortified exterior of sheer walls, turrets and battlements belies the luxury and tranquillity that lies within. Pride of place goes to the vast lounge, once the banqueting hall, decorated with banners and suits of armour, and the inner courtyard with its fountain and well. The bedrooms – some of which have four-poster beds and balconies – enjoy views over the town or the courtyard or the surrounding countryside, and are furnished in traditional Castilian style. A 13^th-century Romanesque chapel is conserved, and other facilities at the Parador include a garden, gym and a sauna. Local specialities at the atmospheric restaurant include Bacalao al estilo Trijueque (salt cod with oyster mushrooms and cheese), Cabrito asado a la Barreña (oven-roasted young goat) and Tarta Doña Blanca (a cake with cream and honey).