Castle of Chipiona

The origin of the Castle of Chipiona is uncertain: some sources date it back to the 13th century, as Alfonso X fortified it during the reconquest of Cadiz (1243-1262); other later studies seem to place it around the 15th century. It is known that it was renovated in 1527. In the 17th century, “it served as the house of the parish priest” and, in the early 18th century, it became the local prison. It was used as a hotel up to 1989.

Infante Carlos of Spain and Princess Louise of Orleáns stayed here. María de las Mercedes, mother of King Juan Carlos I, also resided in the castle. In the year 2000, the Chipiona City Council purchased it for restoration and use. Nowadays, it houses the Cadiz and the New World Interpretation Centre.

Among the events held in the castle, it is worth noting presentations of publications and products, press conferences, receptions, meetings of groups and associations, awareness courses, charity events, conferences, training workshops, and even radio and television programmes.