The castle served as the administrative center for the 'Encomienda de Xivert' under the Knights Templar.
It features a rare double-walled defense system consisting of an Islamic inner wall and a later Christian outer perimeter.
The site includes a preserved Islamic aljibe (cistern) used to store water for the garrison.
Archaeologists discovered evidence of continuous occupation spanning from the Bronze Age through the 17th century.
The castle was surrendered to the Order of the Temple in 1234 by the local Moorish population under a pact of peace.
The distinctive circular tower is a hallmark of Templar military construction techniques from the mid-13th century.
Following the dissolution of the Knights Templar, the castle passed into the possession of the Order of Montesa in 1319.
The site was largely abandoned by the 17th century after the expulsion of the Moriscos rendered the fortress strategically redundant.
The Templar Castle of Xivert is a fortified hilltop complex situated in the Sierra de Irta mountain range. The site integrates a Muslim-era fortress from the 10th or 11th century with significant 13th-century Templar architectural additions. Following the Christian conquest, the Knights Templar expanded the structure, adding a circular tower and residential quarters. The site features an Islamic inner enclosure (alcazaba) and a larger Christian outer wall (barbacana). Archaeological excavations have revealed domestic spaces, including kilns and silos used during the medieval period. The castle remains in a semi-ruined state, allowing visitors to traverse original stone staircases and defensive walkways. It occupies a strategic position overlooking the coastal plains of the Baix Maestrat region. Historical records identify it as a significant enclave within the Order of the Temple's territory in the Crown of Aragon.
The elevated vantage point from the primary circular tower looking toward the coastline.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes as the terrain is uneven, rocky, and unpaved.
Bring your own water and sun protection, as there are no services or shade on the hilltop.
Check local weather reports before ascending, as the mountain tracks can become slippery during rain.
Attempting to climb or sit on unstable wall sections to prevent injury and preserve the masonry.
Access is generally unrestricted as an open-air archaeological site, though extreme weather may prompt local authorities to close access trails.
