Arab fortress: monuments in Mérida, Badajoz at Spain is culture.

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Architecture and monuments / Andalusi art / Mérida

Arab fortress

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Alcazaba citadel in Mérida © Turespaña
Alcazaba citadel in Mérida © Turespaña
Alcazaba citadel in Mérida © Turespaña

An imposing military complex

In the interior it still conserves remnants dating from the Roman, Visigoth and Arab periods. It was built by Abderramán II to prevent attacks from the outside, and internal rebellions.

The fortress has a square floor plan with granite ashlars and walls with square strongholds. After the Reconquest it was donated to the Order of Santiago, who added towers and other Medieval constructions in order to adapt it for use as a convent and residence. The Roman water cistern, with its barrel vault roof, can still be seen in the parade ground; it was located by the river to ensure a constant flow of water, and is reached by a flight of steps. Site of the Regional Government of Extremadura.