Spain's Crumbling Castles: Neglect, Collapse, and the Struggle for Preservation

Spain's ancient castles are deteriorating, with specialists indicating that 60% are in danger of falling down. Architect Ignacio Gil Crespo highlights that, despite an uptick in restoration initiatives, years of neglect remain a significant issue. The 1968 Ministry of Culture inventory is insufficient; the Spanish Association of Friends of Castles suggests there are over 10,000 fortifications, potentially twice that number. Archaeologist Miguel Ángel Bru criticizes regional authorities for their uneven enforcement of heritage laws, which contradicts the 1985 National Heritage Law. Recent structural failures include the tower of Escalona Castle in March, Almonacid Castle, and Peñarroya Castle. Bru also points out squatting problems at Oreja Castle and the unstable condition of Mota del Marqués Castle. Researcher Miguel Sobrino warns that without effective management, the risk of losing genuine castles continues to grow.