San Giacomo Zebedeo (James, son of Zebedee) was one of the twelve apostles and was called “St. James the Great” to distinguish him from the apostle of the same name.
After Jesus’ death, he went to Spain to spread the Gospel and upon his return to Judea, was beheaded by Herod Agrippa.
His name is linked to numerous war exploits such as the battle of Clavijo during the Reconquista in the year 840, when St. James appeared at the head of the Christian troops.
The Castle’s dedication to this saint therefore finds ample justification since under Spanish rule, the Frederician building took on the connotation of a veritable military stronghold.
