Ares del Maestrat

Ares del Maestrat is a small town with under 200 people. It has an interesting history that dates back to prehistoric times. It is evident by cave paintings in the Cova Remigia (eng. Remigia Cave) that can be found after driving approximately 10 minutes south. The Romans built and fortified the city, which later was taken over by Muslims. In 1234, control passed to the Order of the Temple and eventually to the Order of Montesa.

Ares del Maestrat is located on a big rocky hill. For a great panoramic view on the way to the town we stopped at Mirador Ares del Maestrat (eng. Viewpoint Ares del Maestrat) from where you get amazing views of the area and a village itself.

At first we visited the ruins of the castle that can be found on the rocky hill. We arrived with our baby and baby carrier was the only way to properly visit it. From up there, you get amazing views of Maestrat and the mountains in Castellón province. We were quite impressed by how comfortable it is made for tourists to visit it as well as how tastefully weathering steel stairs, benches and viewpoints are integrated into the rocky surroundings.

In the heart of the town we found Plaza Mayor (eng. Main Square) as well as Ayuntamiento (eng. City Hall) that inside preserves the town's old prison. Another thing you can't miss is La Iglesia Parroquial de la Asunción (eng. Parish Church of the Assumption). A beautiful church with a fancy baroque facade. Interestingly, its bell tower is lower than the church itself.

Ares del Maestrat is a small quiet village and a few hours to visit it is sufficient. However, the history and charm of the town as well as the spectacular surroundings make it absolutely worth a visit.

Feel free to send me your suggestions for must-visit places in the province of Castellón and beyond.