Origins of the Alcázar

The Alcázar of Toledo, an example of the Spanish Renaissance, has Roman origins and was a royal residence in the Visigothic period. During the Muslim occupation (10th century), it was a military fortress integrated into the wall of the medina. After the Christian conquest in 1085, it became a royal residence and underwent various modifications. Inside, vestiges of all these periods are still preserved.

The Alcázar in the Modern Age

During the reign of Henry II, the Tower of Homage was built, destroyed in 1523 in the revolt of the Communards. Subsequently, it was rebuilt in Renaissance style under the direction of architects such as Covarrubias and Herrera. With the court moved to Madrid and the ravages of the War of Succession, the building fell into decay.

The Alcázar in the Contemporary Age

Rebuilt in the eighteenth century, it was damaged again during the French occupation of 1810. Since then, it has been linked to the military field, housing the Infantry Academy. In the Civil War (1936-1939), he suffered a siege of more than two months until he was liberated by the Army of Africa sent by Franco.

The Army Museum

Since 2010, the Alcázar has been home to the Army Museum, which exhibits uniforms, weapons and historical documents. Its collection includes more than 5,000 firearms, swords from the Royal Arms Factory of Toledo, armour donated by the Ducal House of Medinacelli, medieval miniatures and rooms dedicated to the Civil War and military strategy. It also has restoration workshops and educational spaces.