Its origin dates back to the Islamic period of al-Andalus, although most of the structure that has been preserved belongs to the reconstructions carried out during the 13th and 14th centuries. This military castle stands as a crucial defense on the border between the Kingdom of Castile and the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada.
Like many Andalusian fortresses, the Castle of Priego has a history marked by disputes and changes of ownership. In the 9th century, the rebel leader Omar ibn Hafsún held it under his control for several years, facing the Emirate of Córdoba. Later, the castle was recovered by the Córdoba authorities. However, it was in 1226 that King Ferdinand III of Castile definitively conquered it for the Christians, and in 1246, it was handed over to the Order of Calatrava, who, in addition to reinforcing the fortress, built the famous Torre del Homenaje (Keep Tower).
During the 14th century, the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada took control of Priego, restoring its walls and expanding the fortress. However, in 1341, King Alfonso XI regained the town for the Christians. In the 15th century, the castle became a noble residence. In 1370, Henry II of Trastámara granted the lordship of Priego to Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba, who became the first Lord of Aguilar and Priego, marking the beginning of the castle’s transition from a military fortress to a noble mansion.
The fortress remained significant in the following centuries, and in 1502, after the War of Granada, the Catholic Monarchs granted the title of Marquis of Priego to Pedro Fernández de Córdoba, who settled in the castle. Over the centuries, the structure suffered various damages, one of the most significant being the 1755 Lisbon earthquake.
In the 20th century, the castle was used for other purposes. In 1946, the fortress was acquired by Luis Fernández de Córdoba, who used it as a granary. Later, the Rubio family rented it and turned it into a silo until 1971. Finally, in 1996, the fortress was donated to the Priego Town Hall for its preservation and opening to the public.
Today, the Castle of Priego de Córdoba is one of the main tourist attractions of the city. Its Torre del Homenaje is one of the most representative elements, and the panoramic views it offers over the city and the surrounding natural environment are spectacular. Visiting this castle is like traveling through time, from its Islamic origins to its transformation into a noble residence, and it is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.