San Felipe Castle, Military fortress at Ferrol estuary, Spain
San Felipe Castle is a multi-level military installation at the mouth of the Ferrol estuary with thick walls and numerous cannons. The fortress was built in a triangular shape to protect the harbor from multiple angles.
The fortress was founded in 1557 under King Philip II to protect the growing harbor. Major rebuilding between 1731 and 1775 reinforced the defenses against new threats at sea.
The fortress was a symbol of royal power and protected the ships built in Ferrol's shipyard. The cannons and walls show how important this harbor was for defending the realm.
Access is on foot up a steep path to reach the installation, so sturdy shoes are recommended. The interior can be cramped in places, but viewing points at the top offer good views of the harbor and city.
The fortress was part of a triangular defense system with two other castles that were connected by chains at night to prevent ships from entering. This system was unusual for its time and shows the advanced strategic planning of Spanish naval architects.
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