Torre de Trafalgar, Military watchtower in Barbate, Spain
The Torre de Trafalgar is a military watchtower in Barbate positioned at the southwestern tip of Cape Trafalgar, standing next to the lighthouse of the same name. Its interior features a circular chamber with a hemispherical vault divided into two levels by wooden flooring.
King Felipe II commissioned this watchtower during the 16th century to defend the Spanish coast against raids by Berber pirates. It functioned as part of a wider coastal defense network that monitored waters and protected settlements.
The site holds remains of a Roman temple dedicated to Juno and an ancient fish salting factory discovered through archaeological work. These findings show how people have valued this location for thousands of years.
The tower stands on elevated terrain at Cape Trafalgar and can be approached via local paths leading to the site. Access to the interior may be restricted due to preservation measures, so it is wise to check current conditions beforehand.
Seven skylights pierce the tower structure and flood both levels with natural light through carefully positioned openings. This clever design feature reveals how thoughtfully the 16th-century builders planned the interior spaces.
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