Tour d'Urkulu, Roman circular tower in Orbaizeta, Spain
Torre de Urkulu is a stone tower standing at the summit of Mount Urkulu at 1419 meters elevation. The structure measures roughly 20 meters in diameter and currently rises about 3.6 meters, with its remains clearly visible on the exposed mountain ridge.
The structure was built around 28 BCE by Roman general Marcus Valerius Messalla Corvinus to mark a military victory over the Tarbelli people. It served to establish the southern boundary of Roman territories in this mountain region.
The tower takes its name from the mountain peak where it stands and is now part of the hiking routes that cross the region. Visitors experience the site as a connection point between the natural landscape and human presence on the border.
The tower sits on an exposed mountain ridge with views across the French-Spanish border, so wind-resistant clothing is advisable. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for steep, rocky terrain when reaching the site.
Archaeological digs in 1990 uncovered a U-shaped consecration altar positioned along the east-west axis of the tower structure. This altar suggests the location functioned as a religious site as well as a military fortification marking the border.
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