Vila Vella, Medieval fortified citadel in Tossa de Mar, Spain.
Vila Vella is a walled settlement with narrow lanes leading to elevated viewpoints overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and Costa Brava. A lighthouse stands at the highest point of the former castle, and several restaurants and craft shops operate within the walls.
The fortification was built in the 13th century to defend the coastal town against attacks from North African pirates. It then developed into a fortified settlement with permanent residential areas and religious buildings.
The church of Sant Vicenç displays Gothic features from the 15th century with pointed arches and decorated keystones. It sits at the heart of the settlement and shapes how the surrounding narrow lanes are organized.
The narrow lanes can be tight and require patience when navigating the dense medieval layout. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes since the streets are cobblestone and some slopes are steep.
The three cylindrical towers and four large defensive structures are rare examples of medieval coastal fortifications in this region. This design shows how settlements protected themselves against ships and invasions from the sea.
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