Castell-Palau dels Aguilar, also known by its original name Palacio - Castillo de Alacuás, stands as a magnificent testament to the rich history and architectural splendor of Alaquàs, a town in the province of Valencia, Spain. This noble mansion, constructed during the decline of the feudal era in the 16th century, seamlessly blends residential comfort with defensive might, making it a unique gem worth exploring.
The origins of Castell-Palau dels Aguilar trace back to the aftermath of the conquest of the Kingdom of Valencia by King James I in 1238. Among the knights rewarded for their loyalty and service was Bernat de Castelló, who received the lands of Alaquàs. Over the centuries, the lordship of Alaquàs passed through various hands, including the Vilaragut family, who established the initial structure in the 14th century.
In the early 16th century, Jaime García de Aguilar, a prominent jurist, took possession of Alaquàs and initiated the construction of the grand castle-palace. The structure, as we see it today, was shaped during this period, reflecting both the architectural trends and the increasing wealth of the Aguilar family.
The Castell-Palau dels Aguilar is a square fortress with a side length of 38.90 meters, covering an area of 1513 square meters. The castle features a central courtyard in the form of a cloister, which serves as the heart of the building. The main entrance, base, and corners are constructed with ashlar blocks, likely repurposed from earlier structures on the same site.
The castle comprises four floors, each with distinct characteristics. The ground floor, partially below street level, housed stables, oil mills, and cellars. Key elements here include a simple staircase made of ashlar blocks and a beautifully coffered ceiling in the vestibule and porch.
The mezzanine level is notable for its intricately carved doors and coffered ceilings, indicating the importance of the rooms on this floor. The main floor, accessible via an unfinished grand staircase, contains the most significant and elegant rooms, including the dining hall and kitchen with its large fireplace.
One of the unique features of the main floor is the access to a grated tribune overlooking the Church of the Assumption, highlighting the patronage the Aguilar family held over the church. The east facade boasts a grand hall that likely served as the principal dining area.
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By the early 17th century, the Pardo de la Casta family, descendants of the Aguilars, faced declining fortunes. Félix Pardo de la Casta, the heir, moved to Cremona, Italy, where he became a significant patron of the arts. His daughter, Margarita Pardo de la Casta, married into the Manfredi family, linking the lordship of Alaquàs to Italian nobility.
The castle remained in the hands of noble families until the 19th century, when it was sold to private individuals. This period saw the castle subjected to various transformations, leading to its deterioration. In the early 20th century, the castle faced the threat of demolition, which was met with significant public outcry.
Thanks to the efforts of cultural institutions and prominent individuals, including Mariano Benlliure, the castle was declared a National Historic-Artistic Monument in 1918, halting its demolition. Despite this, the northwest tower was demolished in 1928 due to structural concerns.
The first democratic city council of Alaquàs in 1979 initiated efforts to reclaim the castle as a public space. In 1999, the city council began the process of expropriating the castle, and by 2003, the monument was officially in public hands. The castle opened its doors to the public on February 28, 2003, hosting cultural activities such as concerts and exhibitions.
A comprehensive restoration plan, completed on March 19, 2007, included the reconstruction of the fourth tower and the discovery of valuable ornamental ceramics. Today, Castell-Palau dels Aguilar serves as a cultural center, housing the Enric Valor Permanent Adult Education Center, the Valencian headquarters of the Ernest Lluch Foundation, and a library.
In 2018, Gothic tiles from the castle, which were being sold online, were recovered, further enriching the historical narrative of this remarkable structure.
Visitors to Castell-Palau dels Aguilar can immerse themselves in the rich history and architectural beauty of this noble mansion. The castle's blend of residential and defensive features offers a unique glimpse into the past, while its modern role as a cultural hub ensures a vibrant and engaging experience. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking to explore a piece of Spain's heritage, Castell-Palau dels Aguilar is a must-visit destination in Alaquàs.
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