The Walled Village of Rada, located in the municipality of Murillo el Cuende in Navarre, is a medieval fortified complex with origins dating back to the 12th century. This site was once a thriving town strategically positioned to oversee the surrounding plains and served as a defense point during the Kingdom of Navarre’s medieval conflicts.
The town was abandoned in the 15th century, after the Agramonteses destroyed the fortress during the Navarrese Civil War in 1455.
The complex features a walled enclosure of approximately 12.000 square meters. The walls, made of masonry and rubble, were reinforced with semicircular towers at key points, providing both structural support and strategic defense positions. Although parts of the walls have been eroded over time, sections of the original structure remain visible, offering a glimpse into its former grandeur.
Within the enclosure, the ruins of various buildings, including a church dedicated to Santa MarÃa, can be observed. The church, built in Romanesque style, once served as the spiritual center of the settlement. Its remains, though modest, retain elements such as semicircular arches and masonry construction typical of the period. Archaeological excavations have also uncovered traces of domestic structures, streets, and a cemetery, shedding light on the daily life of the inhabitants.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Walled Village of Rada is its panoramic location. Perched on a hill, the site offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, emphasizing its strategic importance in medieval times. Visitors can explore the ruins and gain an understanding of the settlement’s defensive design.
More information: https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Recinto_amurallado_de_Rada
