Fodor's Expert Review Castillo de Sigüenza

This enchanting castle overlooking wild hilly countryside from above Sigüenza is now a parador; non-guests can visit the dining room and common areas. The structure was founded by the Romans and rebuilt at various later periods. Most of the current building was erected in the 14th century, when it became a residence for the queen of Castile, Doña Blanca de Borbón, who was banished here by her husband, Pedro the Cruel. During the Spanish Civil War the castle was the scene of fierce battles, and much of the structure was destroyed. The lobby has an exhibit on the subsequent restoration with photographs of the bomb damage. If you have a half-hour to spare, there's a lovely walking path around the hilltop castle with a 360-degree view of the city and countryside below.