Retamar Castle

This ruined castle was built during the era of Moorish occupation and designed to protect the valuable mercury mines from incursions. These days, it's in a crumbling state, but it does offer some of the best views of Almadén and the surrounding area. At first glance, Almadén is not the prettiest village in Spain and the newer neighborhoods could even be considered "ugly." However, the castle (as is the case with most castles) was built on the highest part of the village and lets you enjoy gorgeous sunsets over the hills that cast a golden light on the weather-worn red tile roofs of the homes in Almadén's historic district.