Royal Walls, Medieval fortification in Ceuta, Spain
The Royal Walls form a defensive system protecting the isthmus, featuring two main bastions connected by interconnected ramparts. The structure includes towers, walls, and filled moats designed to control access to the city from multiple directions.
The original fortifications were built in the 10th century but underwent major reconstruction after the conquest in the early 15th century. New defensive features were added to adapt the structure against attacks from the sea and land.
The walls combine building styles from different peoples who controlled the city over the centuries. Walking along them, you notice how each period left its own mark on the defensive structures.
The walls are best explored on foot during early morning or late afternoon to avoid intense sun exposure. Wear sturdy shoes since the paths are uneven and some sections cross rough stone surfaces.
One distinctive element is the water system still visible today that surrounds the fortification and controls maritime passage. This engineering approach shows how defenders once used water itself as part of the defensive strategy.
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