The castle was donated to the Knights Templar by King James I of Aragon following the conquest of the area in 1233.
It served as a strategic watchpoint to control the coastal passage between Tortosa and Valencia.
The masonry includes distinct 'almohad' style architecture, characterized by solid, thick walls and heavy stone construction.
In 1319, after the dissolution of the Knights Templar, the property was transferred to the Order of Montesa.
The site was declared an Asset of Cultural Interest (Bien de Interés Cultural) in 2002 to facilitate preservation efforts.
Castell de Santa Magdalena de Polpís is a 10th-century fortification located on a hill overlooking the village of Santa Magdalena de Polpís in the Castellón province. Originally a Moorish structure, it was later captured by the Order of the Temple in 1233. The site retains significant portions of its perimeter walls, internal chambers, and the base of the main tower. It stands as a prime example of Templar military architecture in the Maestrazgo region. The castle features a double-walled layout designed for defensive tactical control of the surrounding landscape. Archeological investigations have identified various architectural phases ranging from the Islamic period to subsequent Christian renovations. The structure offers panoramic views over the coastal plain towards the Mediterranean Sea. Accessibility to the site requires a hike up the mountain slope from the base of the village. It is an open-access heritage site without formal commercial entry systems.
The highest point of the remaining northern wall, providing a wide-angle view of the village and the coastal plains below.
Wear sturdy hiking boots as the path to the summit is steep, uneven, and covered in loose gravel.
Bring your own water, as there are no facilities, shops, or water sources at the castle site.
Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense Mediterranean sun on the exposed mountain slope.
Attempting to climb the site in flip-flops or non-supportive footwear; visiting during peak midday heat in summer.
Stay within marked paths to protect the ruins and avoid loose structural areas; remove all personal waste.
