Alcazaba de las Siete Torres, Medieval fortress in Orce, Spain
Alcazaba de las Siete Torres is a medieval fortress in Orce with seven defensive towers positioned along its perimeter walls. The complex uses earth and stone construction, and its main tower contains multiple interior levels connected by two separate entry points.
The fortress was built before the 11th century and became strategically important during the 15th century as a defensive position near the Castilian border. It served as a control point during regional power struggles between different rulers of the time.
The fortress displays how building methods changed from Islamic times through the Renaissance, mixing earth and stone construction techniques that show different periods of influence. Walking through it, you can see these shifts in how walls were built and maintained.
The fortress is best visited during daylight hours since interior areas have limited natural light and the pathways can be uneven. Wear sturdy footwear and contact the local tourism office beforehand to confirm access and conditions for your visit.
The main tower's upper section uses larger stone blocks than its base, suggesting construction occurred in different phases. These variations in stonework provide clues about different building periods or restoration work done on the fortress.
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