Castell de Santa Anna d'Oliva, Medieval fortress on Santa Anna hill in Oliva, Spain.
Castell de Santa Anna d'Oliva is a rectangular fortress on a hilltop along the Spanish Mediterranean coast with two round defensive towers at opposite corners. The structure contains various cannons and stone projectiles positioned for defense against attacks from the sea.
King Felipe II ordered construction in 1585 after the Barcelona Courts decided to strengthen coastal defense against Barbary pirates. The fortress was built in response to the threat of naval raiders.
The fortress shows military building forms from the Renaissance period, where towers and cannon positions are arranged strategically for optimal defense. Visitors can directly understand this thoughtful layout while exploring the site.
The best access to the fortress is via the hill approach, and the site is reachable on foot, though the paths can be steep in places. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and allow time to explore the different areas.
The structure preserves an original water reservoir with a cover from the 18th century, a rare example of military infrastructure for prolonged sieges. This water storage system shows how garrisons maintained their independence.
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