The Moors arrived in Spain early in the 8th Century and it was not until 1492 (almost 800 years later) that they had been fully conquered and driven out. This reconquest took place gradually and between the 12C and 14C the Christians were in control of most of the country. During this period the Moors and Jews were segregated and lived in ghettos in many towns. The term Mudejar refers to the Moors at these times.

The Moors clung to their own religion (Islam) but were not allowed to own or build mosques. Despite this, the Christians tolerated Moorish art and architecture and used it in their buildings including castles and churches. It is this Mudejar style that is so evident in Coca castle. A particular aspect of this is the use of brick and the builders of Coca have employed this to remarkable effect.