
The castle’s origins stretch back to the 9thcentury when Spain was ruled by Moors. That domination continued until 1248 when Alfonso de Castilla, future King Alfonso X, took over the castle and established it as a Christian fortress. Many battles took place here, including ones with Napoleon and England. Our guide pointed out the pockmarks in the ancient walls from cannon and musket balls as we climbed to the highest point, past the original gate built by the Moors all those centuries ago. Below us, the city lights sparkled and the bay glimmered in the silvery light of a full moon. Gorgeous!




