Standing watch over the city, the Alcázar has a commanding presence on its hilltop location. This ancient Moorish fortress, built on the site of an earlier Roman fort, was later renovated by the Christian Kings (Alfonso VI "the Brave" in the 11th century and Alfonso X "the Wise" in the 13th century).
The imposing fortress has a square shape with crenellated defenses and four corner towers added under the reign of Emperor Charles V in the 16th century. The facade also reflects the Renaissance style from the period of Charles V. During the Spanish Civil War, the Alcázar was used as a Nationalist garrison and is considered as a monument to the heroism of Franco supporters.
The Alcazar has been restored and now houses an Army Museum with excellent exhibits about the Civil War. The Alcázar is reached from the Plaza de Zocodover, a lovely square at the center of Toledo that is lined with elegant arcaded houses.
At 7 Plaza de Zocodover, the well-known Santo Tome confectionary shop tempts visitors with its delectable handmade marzipan candies.
