Wall of Astorga, Roman defensive wall in Astorga, Spain
The Wall of Astorga is a stone city wall in Astorga, Spain, recognized as part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that partially encircles the historic old town. It runs in segments connected by towers and old gateways, with some sections still standing close to their original height.
The wall was first built during the Roman period, when Astorga was known as Asturica Augusta and served as a key military and administrative city in the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula. Several sections were rebuilt or reinforced during the Middle Ages, which is why the wall today shows stonework from more than one period.
The wall sits along the Way of Saint James, and pilgrims on foot still pass through its old gates as they move westward toward Santiago de Compostela. The Puerta del Sol is one of the most-used entry points, and you can watch travelers stop there to get their pilgrim passport stamped nearby.
The easiest way to see the wall is to walk along the outside edge of the old town, where the best-preserved sections are mostly found on the north and east sides. Some paths near the wall are uneven, so comfortable footwear is a good idea.
In several places along the wall, the Roman stones at the base are noticeably larger and cut differently from the medieval stones stacked on top of them. You do not need any special knowledge to spot the difference as you walk past.
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