Hisn Yakka

Hisn Yakka is an Islamic fortification and archaeological site located at the summit of Cerro del Castillo in Yecla. The excavated area contains the remains of at least fourteen buildings organized within the site, along with an Islamic cemetery on its outer edges.

The fortification emerged in the late 11th century during the first Taifa period and was expanded with a palace complex in the second half of the 12th century. This growth reflects its increasing role as an important administrative center in the region.

The excavated buildings reveal how inhabitants organized their living spaces around central courtyards, following Andalusian-Islamic design traditions. This layout helped manage heat and privacy in the fortified settlement.

The site is located on a hilltop with steep terrain, so buildings are arranged in terraces and the climb can be demanding. Visitors should expect uneven ground and open-air conditions, as this is an exposed archaeological site with no roof or shelter.

At the edges of the settlement stands an Islamic cemetery called a maqbara, revealing the spiritual life of its former inhabitants. This burial ground shows how central religious practices were to this community.