The castle, which is very large, is situated on the crest of the foothills of Sierra Calderona. Its origins can be traced back to the 5th century BC; in particular, to the Iberian settlement of Arse. This Iberian site was later taken by the Carthaginians and the Romans. Sagunto regained its splendour under Islamic control, for the Muslims built the fortress and most of the wall.
In the summer of 1088, Sagunto (also known as Murviedro; i.e. Murum Veterum or “old wall” in Latin), which was still under Muslim control, became one of El Cid’s tributaries. Some years later, in 1098, El Cid, who had already taken control of Valencia, conquered Almenara after which he laid siege to the fortress of Murviedro or Sagunto. He entered the place on 24th June 1098.
Although the poet of El Cantar de Mío Cid recreates these events in the poem, he redefines the chronological framework of the events in order to build a roaring crescendo narrative. According to El Cantar, El Cid captured Sagunto, where he established himself for a period of three years, so as to then lay siege to Valencia. He repelled the attack of an Almoravid army from Valencia, whom he defeated in a pitched battle.
Visits: Admission tickets. Check opening hours and prices at the Castle of Sagunto.
Rev. PAB 27.12.18
