Castle of Ayamonte, Medieval fortress in Ayamonte, Spain.
Castle of Ayamonte is a medieval defensive fortress that once stood at the highest point of the town, strategically positioned to control the Guadiana River mouth and the Portuguese border. The original structure was demolished in 1964 to make way for the modern Parador hotel that now occupies the same site.
The fortress was captured and controlled by the Santiago Order beginning in 1239, with the military monks maintaining their presence for over fifty years. This extended period of occupation shaped both the architecture and strategic importance of the site.
The Church of Nuestra Señora de los Favores once stood within the fortress walls and held a venerated image of Mary that locals honored under different names. This religious center shaped the spiritual life of the settlement for hundreds of years.
The site can be visited today through the Parador hotel, which occupies the elevated position overlooking the town and surrounding areas. Access and exploration of the location depend on the hotel's opening hours and visitor policies.
Following the 1755 Lisbon earthquake, the fortress suffered severe damage with parts of its walls collapsing, and one of its garrison soldiers perished beneath the rubble. This disaster marked a turning point that eventually led to the fortress losing its military purpose.
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