Castillo de Colomares: a contemporary castle dedicated to Christopher Columbus
June 11, 2025
Welcome to the fascinating world of Castillo de Colomares, an extraordinary castle located in picturesque Benalmádena on the Costa del Sol. This architectural gem, though built in modern times, takes us on a journey through history, paying homage to one of the greatest explorers of all time - Christopher Columbus. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure that combines elements of history, art and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The Castillo de Colomares is not just a tourist attraction, it is a true work of art that delights adults and children alike, offering a unique educational and aesthetic experience. In this article, we will take you on a journey through the nooks and crannies of this unique place, uncovering its secrets and showing you why you should put it on your must-see list when visiting Spain.
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History and architecture of Castillo de Colomares
Castillo de Colomares, despite its medieval appearance, is a relatively young structure. Built between 1987 and 1994 by Dr. Esteban Martín Martín, an American physician of Spanish descent, the castle is a tribute to Christopher Columbus and his famous expeditions. What makes this building unique is its eclectic architecture, combining elements of various styles, including Gothic, Romanesque, Byzantine and mudéjar.
Strolling through the castle grounds, visitors can admire intriguing architectural details that tell the story of Columbus' discoveries. Every corner, tower and arch has its own significance, creating a fascinating story carved in stone. Note the symbolism associated with Columbus' three caravels - Niña, Pinta and Santa María - which are represented in the castle's structure.
One of the most impressive features is the chapel, which is located inside the complex. Despite its small size (just 1.96 sq. m.), it has been listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the smallest church in the world. It's a place that is sure to pique the interest of adults and children alike, providing an excellent example of how history and architectural creativity can be combined.
The Castillo de Colomares is not a typical castle, which can be explored from the basement to the towers. Most of the attractions are located outside, allowing you to freely admire the architectural details and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding area. It's the perfect place for families who want to combine learning history with enjoying art and nature.
Practical information for visitors
When planning a visit to Castillo de Colomares, there are a few practical considerations that will help you fully enjoy this remarkable attraction. The castle is located in Finca la Carraca, on the Costa del Sol road in Benalmádena. Getting there by car is the easiest option, and importantly, free parking is available at the site, making logistics much easier, especially for families with children.
Ticket prices are very affordable, making Castillo de Colomares an attractive option for families. Adults pay €3, while children under 12 pay €2. This is a small price to pay for the opportunity to interact with such a unique work of architectural art. It's worth noting that these prices are current as of the date of the last verification, but it's always a good idea to check the current information on the castle's official website before visiting.
A tour of the castle takes about 30-40 minutes on average, making it an ideal attraction to combine with other points on a Costa del Sol tour. Free restrooms are available on site, which is a great convenience, especially for families with young children. In addition, there is a bar on the premises where you can relax and enjoy a cool drink, which is especially valuable on hot Spanish days.
One of the strengths of Castillo de Colomares is the availability of descriptions in various languages, including Polish. At the entrance, the staff asks about the country of origin and offers a guide in the appropriate language, making it much easier to understand the history and symbolism of the place. All points of interest are numbered and described in detail, allowing for a self-guided yet complete tour.
It is worth remembering that the Castillo de Colomares is located on a hill, which provides beautiful views, but may also mean a little climbing. For those who prefer to avoid walking uphill, getting there by car is the best option. Alternatively, you can take the local railroad and then walk about 2 km, which can be a pleasant walk in itself, offering beautiful views of the area.
Why visit Castillo de Colomares?
Castillo de Colomares is more than just another tourist attraction - it's a unique combination of history, art and education that offers an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Here are a few reasons why you should put this remarkable castle on your list of places to visit during your stay on the Costa del Sol.
First, the Castillo de Colomares is a true feast for the eyes. Its unique architecture, which combines different styles and eras, is a fascinating example of a modern interpretation of historical motifs. Every detail, from the ornaments to the shape of the building, tells a piece of the story of Christopher Columbus and his discoveries. This is an excellent opportunity to get children interested in history and architecture in an accessible way.
Second, the castle offers unforgettable views of the Costa del Sol. Situated on a hill, it provides a panoramic view of the area, making it the perfect backdrop for family photographs. It's also a great place to stop for a while and enjoy the beauty of the Spanish coast.
The third reason is the educational aspect of the visit. Castillo de Colomares is not only a beautiful site, but also a live history lesson. With descriptions available in Polish, parents can easily teach their children fascinating facts about geographic discoveries and the life of Christopher Columbus. It's a great way to combine pleasure and utility during the vacations.
What's more, Castillo de Colomares is an affordable and easily accessible attraction. Low ticket prices, free parking and short tour times make it an ideal option even for families with busy schedules or limited budgets. It's possible to come here for a short visit without spending a whole day, and still see something truly special.
The atmosphere of the place is also worth mentioning. Unlike many crowded tourist attractions, Castillo de Colomares offers a quieter, more intimate experience. It's the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of popular resorts for a while and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of history and architecture.
All in all, Castillo de Colomares is a place that combines many advantages - it's beautiful, educational, affordable and offers unforgettable views. It's an excellent choice for families looking for an attraction that will interest both children and adults, leaving lasting memories of their Costa del Sol vacation. Whether you are a lover of history, architecture or simply looking for an interesting place for a family trip, Castillo de Colomares is sure to meet your expectations and become one of the highlights of your trip to Spain.
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