Alcazaba, Salobreña, Moorish fortress on coastal hill in Salobreña, Spain
The Alcazaba rises on a rocky outcrop above Salobreña as a fortress with defensive walls, multiple towers, and passages overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The structure extends across different levels, from lower defensive lines to higher viewpoints that command the surrounding coastal landscape.
The fortress originated during the Nasrid sultanate period and initially served as a royal summer residence for Granada's rulers. It later became a prison for political captives and underwent changes as the region shifted between different powers.
The fortress displays a blend of Moorish military architecture and later Christian modifications that reflect different periods of rule. Visitors can observe these layers directly in the walls and towers that changed hands over centuries.
Reaching the fortress requires steady effort as several stairs and uneven paths lead through the site, especially toward higher areas. Proper footwear and plenty of water are important since shade is limited and the sun can be intense, particularly in summer months.
Legend holds that a chess match between rivals determined control of the fortress and the political future of the region. This story reveals how the site served not just as a military position but also as a stage for power struggles and court intrigue.
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