The castle was built on the site of an earlier Moorish fortification, re-utilizing foundations to establish Christian authority.
It is the only example of an 'arquitectura señorial' (seigneurial architecture) of its type remaining in the province of Almería.
The interior courtyard features unique stone coats of arms belonging to the Fajardo family, the Marqués de los Vélez lineage.
The castle museum collection includes over 400 works of contemporary art donated by the journalist Antonio Manuel Campoy.
The building incorporates an underground cistern system, essential for surviving long sieges during its active military years.
The Castillo del Marqués de los Vélez is a 16th-century fortress located in Cuevas del Almanzora, constructed to defend the region against Barbary pirate raids. It features a notable transition between Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles, specifically within its central courtyard and stone arches. The structure served as the administrative and judicial seat for the Marqués de los Vélez, who held feudal lordship over the Almanzora Valley. Today, the castle houses the Antonio Manuel Campoy Museum, which displays a significant collection of 20th-century Spanish art, including works by Picasso and Miró. The site also functions as a cultural hub, containing the municipal archives and the Sala Goya gallery. Its heavy stone masonry and crenellated towers remain well-preserved examples of defensive architecture in Almería province.
From the center of the interior courtyard looking up toward the ornate stone arches.
Visit the upstairs gallery to see the rotating contemporary art exhibitions.
Spend time in the central courtyard to observe the transition from Gothic to Renaissance masonry details.
Combine your visit with a walk through the historic town center of Cuevas del Almanzora, which is located immediately outside the castle walls.
Do not attempt to climb the exterior walls or walk on the non-restored sections of the battlements.
Closed on Mondays; often closes during midday for a siesta break.
Maintain a quiet tone, as parts of the building still function as municipal administrative offices.
