Staying in this ancient town, one has an immediate sense of history. The Old City remains completely surrounded by the tall stone walls of centuries ago. At one corner stands an immense structure, right on the coast, offering stunning views of Africa. This is the grand old Castle of Guzman in Tarifa Spain.
Brief History
Earliest records of this castle date it to 960AD when it was first constructed as a Moorish fortress. Built to protect the city from raids from Africa to the south and the Vikings to the north, it has stood the test of time.
In 1294, the castle was defended from the Moors by Alonzo Perez de Guzman. He sacrificed his son in order to save the town, and the castle has since been named after him.
In the 1760’s the castle was refortified under orders from King Charles the III in an attempt to defend the coastline against the Berber pirates. And in 1808 it was used by Spanish troops to defend against the French.
Entrance
Tickets cost €4 for adults and the price is well worth the visit. Inside there is a substantial interpretation area covering various floors of the castle. Visitors have access to the main tower and the perimeter of the roof around the other buildings. Views alone, are breathtaking, both of the Straight of Gibraltar and the whitewashed town of Tarifa.
Torre de Guzman el Bueno
The main octagonal tower sits front and centre for any visitor to the city. Beside this tower is the entrance gate and a beautiful bronze statue of Guzman with a lion. Climb the steps and walk the rampart to reach the top of the tower. Here sit cannons and views for days.
Museum
The bulk of the castle is a multi-layer static museum full of interesting things to see. Periodically walk over glass floors showing early roman construction underneath. Notice the original brick lattice work and wall paintings decorating the interior.
Have a peek out of each window you pass, they offer some excellent view of the town. Visitors will follow the signs from 1 to 20 leading them through the wandering passages and galleries.
At one point you will return to the top of this castle, and have access to another tower and the circumference of the main building. Walk around getting whipped by the wind, touching the roof tiles and looking down into the ferry port and ancient streets.
Back Side
Towards the end of the route, the signs lead you to the exterior. Here are the archaeological dig sites for the ancient cisterns. See the large round stones, used in the catapults during the medieval ages and other curiosities of antiquity.
Walk around the rear of the castle down at ground level and realize how tall the walls are. Spikes and hot oil raining down from the ramparts would have indeed proved a formidable defence.
Visiting the Castle of Guzman el Bueno is a wonderful way to absorb yourself into the history of this tumultuous area. The views of the sea and ocean, ferry port, Isla de Tarifa and African coast are simply stunning from any access point. This beautiful piece of history is well presented and a treasure to the town of Tarifa.
