Torre del Rayo, Medieval fortified tower in Tarifa, Spain.
Torre del Rayo is a medieval defensive tower standing on the Tarifa coast, built from stone with thick walls and a compact structure. The construction reflects typical coastal fortification design of its era, with narrow openings for observation and protection.
The tower was built during the Middle Ages as part of a defensive system protecting southern Spain's coast from maritime attacks. It was later designated as protected cultural heritage, reflecting its importance to regional history.
This monument received official recognition as a Bien de Interés Cultural on June 29, 1985, marking its status in Spanish heritage.
The tower is located on the coast near Tarifa and can be accessed from the town, situated along the Strait of Gibraltar. Visitors should prepare for exposure to coastal weather and wind conditions when visiting the site.
From its location, the tower overlooks one of the world's busiest maritime passages between the Mediterranean and Atlantic. This positioning made it a crucial observation point for monitoring sea traffic through the Strait.
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