Alcázar de Salamanca, Medieval fortress in Salamanca, Spain
The Alcázar de Salamanca is a medieval military fortress positioned at the southwestern corner of the walled old town. The remaining structures consist of stone walls and the base of a central tower that once dominated the site.
King Alfonso VI of León constructed this fortress in the 11th century as part of his strategy to repopulate and control the southern frontier. The building strengthened the kingdom's hold over the region during a period of territorial expansion.
The remaining walls show how medieval Spanish builders constructed military fortifications with irregular stonework. Walking around the site, you can see the rough stone techniques they used from the 11th to 13th centuries.
You can view the ruins from the outside, though access to some areas may require contacting the University of Salamanca in advance. It helps to check which sections are open before visiting.
In 1472, the city council ordered the fortress demolished to prevent criminals and rebellious nobles from using it as a hideout. This political decision permanently altered the city's layout.
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