The first inhabitants
Official tourism sources mention Palaeolithic and Iberian settlements, and excavations at the castle have shown occupation since the Bronze Age. They give no more precise dates.
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History of Orpesa
Orpesa, in the Plana Alta, has been inhabited for millennia and its history centres on the castle, conquered by James I in 1233, and on the King's Tower, built against pirates.
Castle, El Cid and James I
The castle is an old Muslim fortress. According to the Generalitat's description, in 1090 El Cid took it from King Alhagib, and in 1233 it came under James I, who according to Turisme Castelló conquered the castle crowning the upper part of the town at that time. Today the Muslim wall with four towers remains.
The King's Tower
The King's Tower was built in the reign of Philip II in response to repeated pirate raids. The source does not give the year.
Timeline
- 1090
- El Cid takes the castle from King Alhagib.
- 1233
- The castle passes to James I.
- 16th century
- The King's Tower is built, in the reign of Philip II.
Text written by Zona Zero TV from public sources; early dates vary between authors. Sources: Oropesa del Mar / Orpesa (Turisme Castelló) · Castillo y Murallas de Oropesa (Comunitat Valenciana). Checked on 3/11/2026.