Attractions and Places To See around Villamuelas - Top 6

Currently, it is not possible to climb to the castle because a tower has collapsed.

Located in the Plaza de la Constitución, in the historic Town Hall in the Neo-Mudéjar style, designed by Ezequiel Martín Martín and built between 1927–1928, with a striking brick facade, masonry panels, horseshoe arches and ceramic decorations, culminating in a circular tower topped with a bulbous dome (tiled, from 1930).

Mascaraque Castle is one of the town's main attractions. Origin: It was built in the 14th century on the site of an earlier Muslim fortification. Historical Owners: It was renovated by the Padilla family, who were associated with the Comuneros in the 15th century. Architecture: The keep is a prominent feature, which, according to tradition, was "demolish" (lowered) by order of the Catholic Monarchs after the Revolt of the Comuneros. Interesting Details: Pentacles or Seals of Solomon can be seen on its walls, symbols that fuel legends of protection and mystery. Current Status: It is privately owned, so the interior is not open to the public, but the exterior is impressive and well worth seeing.

Mascaraque stands out for its authentic and tranquil atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a historical getaway without the crowds. Its historical heritage—centered on the castle, the church, and several hermitages—offers a rich cultural experience alongside a friendly local life. The rural surroundings reinforce this feeling of disconnection: olive groves, vineyards, and nature trails complete the appeal. In short, a destination with its own unique identity, highly valuable for lovers of heritage and charming villages.

The hermitage was built to house the only image saved from the fire that destroyed the parish church on April 23, 1521, during the Revolt of the Comuneros of Castile. This surviving carving was moved from the old chapel dedicated to Saint Christopher, leading to the change of dedication to Our Lady of La Antigua. At the end of the 16th century, it was completely rebuilt in the popular Toledo Baroque style, using threshing floor bricks and quartzite and lime masonry. During the Peninsular War, the French set fire to the hermitage, destroying much of the image; only the original head was preserved, which is now located at the feet of the current carving from 1955.

Devotion to the image of Our Lady of La Antigua is due to the fire that devastated the parish church on April 23, 1521, set by the troops of Charles I during the War of the Communities of Castile. Only the effigy of the Virgin Mary survived, which was taken to the hermitage of San Cristóbal for protection, leading to the building's dedication being changed to Our Lady of La Antigua. This was not the only incident the image suffered; during the Peninsular War, Napoleon's army set fire to the hermitage, leaving only the head of the statue, which is preserved today at the feet of the current image, dating from 1955. Her feast day takes place on the first Sunday of September, preceded by the novena, a period during which the faithful walk up the hill. The previous Saturday, the proclamation and floral offering take place, and on the main day, a mass is held in honor of the Virgin and a multitudinous procession on the shoulders of the Virgin in the Morachos (male and female) up the hill that bears her name.

The Town Hall is perhaps the most unique building in the municipality, representing a beautiful metaphor with its name and use. Its architect was Ezequiel Martín Martín, and its construction began in 1927 and was completed practically a year later in 1928. The tile-clad tower was completed in 1930.

This rock fortress, shaped to fit the terrain, has an elongated and irregular shape. Built in the 10th century under Arab rule, it passed into the hands of Alfonso VII and later to the Order of Santiago, to whom it belonged until the 17th century, when King Philip II sold the town of Mora and all its properties, including its castle, to Fernando de Rojas Guevara, becoming part of his lordship. From its heights, there is a magnificent view of the immense olive grove, which stretches as far as the eye can see. Admission is free.