Belmonte, History and Charm in a Unique Setting

Palacio Del Infante Don Juan Manuel Hotel Spa was the first fortress of Belmonte and was built to serve as a Venta del Quijote, offering shelter to travellers along the historic route. Our location is no coincidence: Belmonte is one of the municipalities with the richest heritage in the area, and its surroundings boast beautiful landmarks well worth discovering by all our visitors.

In the 14th century, Don Juan Manuel, Prince of Villena, nephew of King Alfonso X the Wise and a renowned writer, ordered the construction of Belmonte’s first fortress, on the site where our hotel now stands, along with its defensive walls. The Lordship of Villena later passed into the hands of the Pacheco family, and it was in the former Palacio Del Infante Don Juan Manuel that the Marquis of Villena, Don Juan Pacheco, was born — a key figure behind the War of Succession between Queen Isabella the Catholic and Juana la Beltraneja. It was Don Juan Pacheco who went on to build the imposing Castle of Belmonte.

With the construction of the castle, Don Juan Manuel’s fortress was converted into a Dominican convent, housing the religious order until the 1960s. Belmonte is the birthplace of Fray Luis de León and San Juan del Castillo, and is home to an exceptionally rich architectural and cultural heritage. In the 19th century, Empress Eugénie of Montijo, wife of Napoleon III, acquired Belmonte Castle and restored it, creating the impressive parade ground. Set along the Route of Don Quixote and close to the La Mancha Wine Route, Belmonte has become a focal point for a compelling cultural, gastronomic and natural offering that every traveller should experience.

For further information of interest about Belmonte, please visit Turismo Belmonte.

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