Olite Royal Palace

Around 1400, King Charles III of Navarre enlarged the castle, transforming it into the royal palace that later became the residence of the Kings of Navarre. This expansion led to the loss of its former fortress-like character.

The extensive complex today comprises the old castle (Palacio Viejo) dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries and the new palace (Palacio Nuevo) built in the 15th century. Wars in the 16th century damaged the palace, eventually leading to its abandonment. In 1813, during the Napoleonic Wars, the building was set on fire. Extensive restoration efforts began in the 20th century.

Currently, parts of the building house a Parador, a three-star hotel with a restaurant. Certain sections of the site are open for public visitation. The monumental complex of the Olite Royal Palace comprises the former palace, now housing a national parador; the ruins of St. George's Chapel; and the new palace, its largest section, that is open to the public.

Source: Wikipedia (DE)