Torre del Tostón, Military fortress in El Cotillo, Fuerteventura, Spain.
Torre del Tostón is a circular stone structure with two floors and a vaulted ceiling, positioned strategically to overlook the Atlantic Ocean. The building features thick walls and an open platform at the top, providing wide views across the water.
Built in 1796 by engineer Claudio de L'Isle, the fortress was equipped with three iron cannons and garrisoned by 12 soldiers. It served to protect the natural port of El Cotillo from pirate attacks and played a key defensive role for the island.
The fortress holds the status of Bien de Interés Cultural and now functions as an exhibition space for contemporary art from Canarian artists. The place blends its defensive past with cultural use, showing how historical structures serve creative purposes today.
The site operates as a visitor center with panoramic views available from the upper level. It makes sense to explore the outdoor areas and observe the surrounding bay from different vantage points.
The stone used for construction came from a nearby quarry beside El Cotillo's church, showing how local materials were sourced for the build. The fortress originally featured a drawbridge secured by iron chains, an engineering feature that enhanced its defenses.
Location: La Oliva
Address: Castillo de el Cotillo, 35650 La Oliva, Las Palmas, Spain
Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 09:00-16:00; Saturday-Sunday 09:00-15:00
Phone: +34928861904
GPS coordinates: 28.68000,-14.01056
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:44
Fuerteventura, the second largest island in the Canary Islands, is characterized by its diverse landscapes and notable geological features. The island houses spectacular formations such as the white dunes of Corralejo Natural Park, extending over more than 10 kilometers, the 70-million-year-old Ajuy caves, and accessible volcanoes like Calderon Hondo with its 70-meter-deep crater. The coastline offers expansive beaches like the one in Cofete, 12 kilometers long and backed by the Jandía mountains, as well as Lobos Island, a volcanic nature reserve with black sand beaches. Beyond its natural assets, Fuerteventura offers cultural experiences such as the Grain Museum, which traces the island's agricultural history, and activities suitable for all ages with Oasis Park with 3,000 animals or Aqua Water Park in Corralejo. The island's climate allows visits year-round, with mild temperatures and ample sunshine promoting exploration of its natural parks, historical sites, and preserved coastline.
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Calderón Hondo
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Casa de los Coroneles
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Acua Water Park
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Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria
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Tostón Lighthouse
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Playa del Castillo
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Montaña de Tindaya
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Barranco de los Encantados
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Southeastern windmill on La Montañeta
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Windmill in El Cotillo
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Northwestern windmill on La Montañeta
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El Cotillo lime kilns
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Windmill of Lajares
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Port of El Cotillo
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Ziphius cavirostris skeletal mount in El Cotillo
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