Zaragoza province is also home to fortresses closely linked to the history of Aragon. One of the most significant can be found in Caspe: the Castle of the Compromise, a building whose importance goes far beyond its architecture. Its walls witnessed one of the most important political events in the Crown of Aragon and still recall the historic episode that gave the fortress its name.
Among other things, this castle was the setting for the Compromise of Caspe in 1412, an event that resolved a succession crisis through dialogue and negotiation, marking a milestone in medieval European politics. For this reason, in this article we travel back to the medieval past of Zaragoza province. Let us discover the history of Caspe Castle.
The Castle of the Compromise is also known as Bailiff's Castle. Photo: Tourism of Aragon
ORIGIN OF CASPE CASTLE
The Castle of the Compromise, also known as Bailiff's Castle, dates back to between the 13th and 15th centuries and was built over an old Muslim fortress. The castle was erected by order of Juan Fernández de Heredia, grand master of the Order of St John of Jerusalem, who wanted it to serve as a meeting place for the representatives who would choose the successor to the Crown of Aragon. All of this took place within the framework of the Compromise of Caspe.
And so it did. Caspe Castle fulfilled its purpose and reached its greatest importance in 1412, when the event known as the Compromise took place. Following the death of King Martin I of Aragon without an heir, an assembly was convened and Ferdinand of Antequera was chosen as the new monarch, thereby avoiding a civil war.
Over the centuries, the castle suffered significant damage, especially during the Peninsular War and the Carlist Wars. In 2012, on the occasion of the sixth centenary of the Compromise of Caspe, major restoration work was completed, helping to restore part of its former splendor.
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN
The Castle of the Compromise stands at the highest point of a promontory overlooking the entire Guadalope valley. It has a rectangular ashlar-stone layout measuring approximately 55 by 27 meters, with buttresses reinforcing its structure. Notable features include a cylindrical tower at the southern end and a grand hall with a two-arched window featuring semicircular arches. The castle also forms part of the medieval acropolis, alongside the Collegiate Church and the former Convent of the Knights of St John, all located in Plaza del Compromiso.
Although much of the original complex has been lost, restoration work has preserved significant elements of its Gothic architecture. In fact, these restorations have given rise to several legends. The most widespread claims that secret passageways once connected the castle with different points around Caspe, serving as escape routes in the event of enemy invasions. However, there has never been concrete evidence of their existence.
Collegiate Church of Saint Mary the Greater
Today, the northern section of the palace remains, along with a tower with a trapezoidal floor plan. Next to the castle stands the Collegiate Church of Saint Mary the Greater, built in the Gothic style during three construction periods between the 14th and 15th centuries. Ferdinand of Antequera was proclaimed king of the Crown of Aragon on its steps.
The Collegiate Church of Saint Mary the Greater stands next to the castle
Inside are the relic of the True Cross and the chalice used to celebrate the oath-taking and proclamation mass during the Compromise of Caspe.
CASPE CASTLE OPENING HOURS AND PRICES
The Castle of the Compromise has fairly limited opening hours. It is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on Sundays. The castle can also be visited independently or as part of a guided tour.
Guided tours cost 2.20 euros. They last approximately 45 minutes and include a tour of the entire castle. These tours are also available for visits to the Church of Saint Mary the Greater. Booking in advance through the official Caspe Town Council website is recommended.
HOW TO GET TO CASPE
If the magic of Caspe Castle has completely captivated you, you can plan your trip as soon as possible to enjoy the experience in person. To help you in every way we can, here are routes to Caspe from the three main cities in Aragon.
From Zaragoza
From the Aragonese capital, you can choose from several options:
• You can travel by car or motorcycle along the AP-2 to Bujaraloz, then take the A-230 to Caspe, a journey of approximately one hour and 20 minutes.
• You can take a bus operated by HIFE S.A. from Zaragoza Central Bus Station and reach Caspe in approximately an hour and a half.
• Alternatively, you can take a Renfe train from Zaragoza-Goya station and reach Caspe in approximately one hour and 20 minutes.
For buses and trains, we recommend checking the companies' official websites to confirm timetables and ticket prices and plan your trip in the best possible way.
From Huesca
From the Huesca capital, we recommend traveling by car or motorcycle, as this is the fastest and most accessible option. You can take the A-131 to Sariñena and then the A-230 to Caspe. The journey takes approximately one hour and 40 minutes, making it the longest and most demanding route.
From Teruel
Finally, from the Teruel capital, we also recommend traveling to Caspe by car or motorcycle. In this case, you will need to take the N-211 to Caspe, a journey of approximately one hour and 20 minutes.
In conclusion, the Castle of the Compromise in Caspe is more than a fortress: it is a symbol of dialogue and consensus in the history of Aragon. Its architecture and the legends surrounding it make it an essential destination for lovers of history and culture. Visiting it means entering a fascinating chapter of the past that remains alive in every stone of its walls.
