Castle of San Marcos, Cádiz

Castle and Mosque in Cádiz

Castle of San Marcos Port of Santa Maria Spain 10

The Castle of San Marcos is one of the most historic and evocative buildings in El Puerto de Santa María, rising beside the Guadalete River in the heart of the old town. Commissioned by Alfonso X “The Wise” after he took the settlement in 1260, the castle has roots that stretch far deeper. It was originally a fortified church built in the 12th century atop a 9th-century mosque, giving it a layered identity shaped by centuries of cultural change. Today it stands as one of the best places to visit in El Puerto de Santa María for travellers interested in medieval architecture, religious history, and wine culture.

The Gothic-style castle features an octagonal keep and an enclosure protected by eight battlement-topped towers, all surrounded by remnants of an old city wall. Its mixture of military and sacred architecture, paired with its riverside setting, gives it a unique atmosphere. The castle hosts cultural events, conferences, and special dinners, and because it is owned by Bodegas Caballero-located right next door-it is a great place to visit on a walking tour of El Puerto de Santa María that combines history with local sherry or wine tasting.

History and Significance of the Castle of San Marcos
Things to See and Do in the Castle of San Marcos
How to Get to the Castle of San Marcos
Practical Tips on Visiting the Castle of San Marcos
Where to Stay close to the Castle of San Marcos
Is the Castle of San Marcos Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting the Castle of San Marcos
Nearby Attractions to the Castle of San Marcos

History and Significance of the Castle of San Marcos

The site's origins begin with a 9th-century mosque built during the Islamic period of Al-Andalus. In the 12th century, a fortified church was constructed on top of the mosque, incorporating earlier foundations and aligning the space with Christian worship while retaining its defensive qualities. When Alfonso X took the town in 1260, he commissioned significant works to strengthen and expand the structure, giving rise to much of the Gothic appearance seen today.

Over the centuries, the castle became one of the most important fortified buildings in the Bay of Cádiz region. Its octagonal keep provided both lookout and refuge, while its eight surrounding towers-armoured with battlements-created a defensive perimeter anchored by a small city wall. The blending of mosque, church, and castle architecture makes the Castle of San Marcos one of the things to do in El Puerto de Santa María for visitors intrigued by how history layers itself over time.

In more recent history, the property came under the ownership of Bodegas Caballero, one of the region’s celebrated wine producers. Their stewardship has helped preserve the building while turning it into a cultural venue that welcomes visitors for tours, tastings, and special events.

Things to See and Do in the Castle of San Marcos

Begin by exploring the exterior, where you can admire the battlements, towers, and the distinctive octagonal keep. The Gothic lines of the building are striking, especially set against the quiet streets and the nearby Guadalete River.

Inside, the castle reveals its layered past through architectural details that recall its sacred origins as well as its defensive role. Look for the incorporation of earlier structures, including hints of the 12th-century fortified church and traces of the mosque that preceded it.

The castle also serves as a venue for cultural activities. Depending on the season, you may find exhibitions, concerts, or events taking place in the halls or gardens. If you’re combining the visit with a wine experience, Bodegas Caballero next door offers tastings that pair beautifully with the history of the castle. Together, they make one of the top attractions in El Puerto de Santa María for those who enjoy local culture and regional flavours.

How to Get to the Castle of San Marcos

The castle is located in the historic centre of El Puerto de Santa María, close to the river and easily reached on foot once you’re in town.

Travelling by air, visitors typically fly into Jerez Airport or Seville Airport before travelling to El Puerto by train or car. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Cádiz on Booking.com.

If arriving by train, El Puerto de Santa María station connects with regional services, and the castle is about a 20-25 minute walk or a short taxi ride away. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If travelling by car, you can park in nearby public car parks around the historic centre and walk to the castle through the atmospheric old streets. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Castle of San Marcos

Best time to visit the Castle of San Marcos: Late afternoon for soft light and cooler temperatures.
Entrance fee in Euros: Varies depending on tour type; castle and wine-tasting packages available.
Opening hours: Guided tours operate on set schedules; check in advance.
Official website: See Bodegas Caballero for ticketing and tour details.
How long to spend: 60-90 minutes.
Accessibility: Some uneven surfaces; upper levels may not be accessible.
Facilities: Restrooms available; event spaces open during activities.
Photography tip: Capture the octagonal keep from the garden area.
Guided tours: Recommended to fully understand the site’s layered history.
Nearby food options: Numerous tapas bars and restaurants in the old town.

Where to Stay close to the Castle of San Marcos

El Puerto de Santa María offers several pleasant stays within walking distance of the castle. A charming option is Monasterio de San Miguel, set in a historic building. For modern comfort near the river, consider Soho Boutique Puerto. Another good choice is Los Cantaros, located close to shops and restaurants.

Is the Castle of San Marcos Worth Visiting?

Yes. With its deep historical roots, striking Gothic architecture, and unique combination of castle and wine-cellar culture, the Castle of San Marcos is one of the best places to visit in El Puerto de Santa María. It offers atmosphere, authenticity, and a memorable sense of place.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.4 (3,946)

Castillo de San Marcos in El Puerto de Santa María is a well‑preserved medieval fortress offering guided and self‑guided tours with an audio guide accessed by phone or QR code; visitors praise its intact arches, stained glass and towers, recommend climbing the tower for expansive city and sea views, note friendly staff and staff at the entrance, and mention a wine cellar with tastings at the end.

Kat Fred

3 months ago

"Castillo de San Marcos is located in El Puerto de Santa Maria. It’s a beautiful mosque/church/fortress/castle all rolled into one! The stained glass,arches, art, towers… are well intact and so nice to see. Plus, climbing to the top of one of the towers provides an awesome view of Puerto and out to sea. The audio included with your entry tour is quite interesting (so bring headphones). The gals that are at the entrance are always so nice too! Be sure to visit this castle whenever in Puerto!..."

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Michael Virant

2 months ago

"Well worth a ferry ride for a day trip from Cadiz. Very interesting site well presented and the English audio guide was amusing to listen to. Getlost, don't follow the numbered exhibits and you absolutely must climb up to the top of the tower... if you're fit...."

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Simon Laughlin

5 months ago

"The Castillo de San Marcos is a historical gem in the heart of El Puerto de Santa María. Its blend of Christian architecture and Muslim remnantsmakes it a fascinating place for history lovers. It is very well preserved and offers guided tours that reveal its intriguing past, from its origins as a mosque to its transformation into a Christian fortress. The surroundings are pleasant and it's close to other points of interest, making it an essential stop if you're visiting the area. Additionally, the staff is friendly and provides valuable information during the tour. A highly recommended experience...."

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FAQs for Visiting the Castle of San Marcos

Yes, it hosts cultural events, conferences, and special dinners.

Yes, guided tours of the castle alone are available.

Only foundations and structural traces remain, but guides explain the original layout.

Yes, though some areas have stairs and uneven ground.

Tours operate on specific schedules; booking ahead is recommended.

Nearby Attractions to the Castle of San Marcos

Plaza de España - The central square of El Puerto, surrounded by historic buildings.
Monasterio de la Victoria - A striking Gothic-Mudejar former monastery.
Playa de la Puntilla - A wide, family-friendly beach near the river mouth.
Bodegas Osborne - Another historic sherry bodega offering tastings and tours.
Castillo de San Antonio - A small historic fortress in the town’s centre.

The Castle of San Marcos appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Cádiz!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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