You are now inside the oldest part of the castle. The highest tower, which occupies the central space, dates back to the ninth and tenth centuries. However, most of the surrounding buildings were constructed starting in the second half of the twelfth century, when the castle passed into the hands of the Order of the Temple—a military organization whose members took religious vows.
This Order was founded in Jerusalem in 1118 with the mission of protecting pilgrims in the Holy Land. In 1143, they received Monzón Castle along with vast properties in the surrounding region. This was the result of the will of King Alfonso I "The Battler," who in 1131 had left the Kingdom of Aragon as a legacy to the military orders.
Since the will could not be fully carried out, the orders reached an agreement: in exchange for renouncing their claim to the kingdom, they received various lands and properties. Thus, the Templars settled in this castle and built new monastic quarters, remaining here until they were forced to abandon it in 1309.
Inside the Refectory, you will find information panels to help you learn more about the Knights Templar.