Castillo de Cebolla

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Known by no fewer than five different names, Castillo de Enesa played an important role in València’s past.

El Puig de Santa Maria holds a significant place in the history of the Region of Valencia as it was where James I gathered his troops, waiting for the perfect moment to seize the city of València. Enveloped in the local huerta stands a mound crowned by Castillo de Cebolla, Cebolla Castle, a fortress whose strategic location was essential in planning the conquest of Islamic València.

Interestingly, Cebolla Castle is known by several different names: Jaime I Castle, El Puig Castle, and Yubayla or Enesa Castle. Steeped in history, this fortress was originally built by the Arabs.Later, it was seized by El Cid, who refortified it with stone and wood, enclosing it with a defensive wall. A village grew around the structure, which we know today as el Puig de Santa Maria.

Over the years, the fortress passed through the hands of several noble figures, including El Cid, James I and other monarchs, before eventually falling to ruin. Yet, the castle’s legacy endures in the remaining walls, partial towers and auxiliary structures. Originally fortified with a moat to repel invaders and thieves, the site’s defensive purpose is still evident. Declared a Site of Cultural Interest in 202, this historic place carries the indelible mark of centuries of history. It’s definitely worth a visit.