It is Arab in origin.
The building incorporates a major water defence system, in combination with various walls and barriers.
The Guadiana River itself served as a natural moat to the north side of the fortification. The rest of the wall was surrounded by an excavated ditch, 10 m deep, into which the water from the river flowed directly. It has 1,500 m of wall with 44 square turrets and two with a pentagonal floor plan. It has two side accesses and two outer towers. The compound is divided into two areas: the Medina, or town; and the Alcázar, or palace. The palace has a Templar apse which was never completed, and a 12-sided floor plan. Also of interest are the remains of the wrought ironwork, and the vaults in the different rooms.
Practical information
Timetables
Oct 01 to Mar 31
Friday to Sunday
10:30 AM to 2:00 PM
4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Apr 01 to May 31
Thursday to Sunday
10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Jun 01 to Aug 31
Tuesday to Thursday
10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Friday to Sunday
10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
5:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Sep 01 to Sep 30
Friday to Sunday
10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Rates
Adults: €4
Reduced: €2
Services
Guided tours