The castle’s excommunication stemmed from a long-standing land and water rights dispute between the town's secular lords and the monks of the Veruela Monastery.
Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer, a famous Spanish Romantic writer, popularized the town's folklore in his 'Letters from My Cell', cementing its association with sorcery.
It is the only municipality in Spain that holds an annual 'Witchcraft Fair' to celebrate its unconventional history.
The fortress was never a royal residence, serving instead as a defensive strongpoint for the various noble families who owned the town.
During the Middle Ages, the castle was a hub for the production of counterfeit currency, which further fueled local legends about dark arts and secret activities.
The building was abandoned and left in ruins for several centuries before the local municipality began stabilization works in the early 2000s.
Trasmoz Castle is the only Spanish town officially excommunicated by the Catholic Church, a status that remains technically active today. The 12th-century fortress, located in the province of Zaragoza, is famous for its historical reputation as a site of witchcraft and clandestine meetings. Unlike other Spanish fortifications, the castle was primarily a secular lordship rather than a crown property, leading to frequent conflicts with the nearby Monastery of Veruela. The current structure consists of the restored Torre del Homenaje and remnants of the surrounding defensive walls. Restoration efforts in the 21st century have stabilized the ruins for public access and historical exhibition. The site offers panoramic views of the Moncayo mountain range and the Ebro valley plains.
The top of the restored Torre del Homenaje offers a 360-degree view of the village and the surrounding arid landscape.
Wear sturdy walking shoes, as the path to the castle involves uneven, steep, and rocky terrain.
Bring binoculars to scan the Moncayo mountain range from the top of the tower.
Plan to visit the village museum, which provides critical historical context for the castle's excommunication.
Do not attempt to climb or scale non-restored walls, as the limestone structure is fragile.
The castle is generally closed on weekdays during the off-season; visitors should verify seasonal weekend access before traveling.
No specific dress code, but exercise caution on unstable masonry and stay within marked paths for safety.
