Alcazaba of Badajoz
Extremadura
The Alcazaba of Badajoz is a vast Moorish fortress located in the city of Badajoz, Extremadura, Spain. Originally founded in the 9th century by Abd-al Rahman Ibn Marwan, it was strategically built on a hill overlooking the Guadiana river to control passage between Portugal and central Iberia. The current structure mainly dates from the 12th century Almohad period, featuring extensive defensive walls, towers, and gates. It served as the residence of the taifa rulers during the 11th and 12th centuries and was later adapted by Christian conquerors, who transformed the Great Mosque into the church of Santa MarĂa de Calatrava. The fortress includes notable towers such as the Espantaperros Tower, with its octagonal base and MudĂ©jar-style additions, and the Renaissance-style Palace of the Dukes of Feria, now housing the Provincial Archaeological Museum. Surrounded by natural defenses like the Guadiana river and Rivillas torrent, the Alcazaba remains a remarkable example of medieval military architecture and cultural fusion, reflecting centuries of Islamic and Christian influence. It was declared a national monument of Spain in 1931 and continues to be a major historical and tourist attraction.
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Tip: Visitors should plan to visit during the spring or autumn months when the weather is mild and pleasant. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance for the Provincial Archaeological Museum located within the Alcazaba. Guided tours are recommended to fully appreciate the historical significance and architectural details. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the extensive grounds and uneven terrain.
Interesting facts
- •The Alcazaba of Badajoz is considered the largest Moorish fortress in Europe by surface area and perimeter.
- •Its walls extend approximately 1,300 meters, enclosing around 8 hectares, with historical fortifications once covering over 50 hectares.
- •The Espantaperros Tower, built in 1169, stands 30 meters tall and features a Mudéjar-style temple added in the 16th century.
- •The Great Mosque inside the Alcazaba was converted into the church of Santa MarĂa de Calatrava after the Christian conquest and served as Badajoz’s cathedral until the current one was built.
- •The Palace of the Dukes of Feria within the Alcazaba is a Renaissance building with Mudéjar elements and now houses the Provincial Archaeological Museum.
History
Badajoz was founded in 875 by Abd-al Rahman Ibn Marwan, who established the original citadel on the hill known as Cerro de la Muela.
The fortress underwent significant reconstruction in 1169 under Almohad caliph Abu Yaqub Yusuf, shaping much of its present form.
Subsequent Muslim restorations occurred in the 13th century before the city was captured by Christian King Alfonso IX of LeĂłn.
Over the centuries, the Alcazaba evolved from a Muslim stronghold to a Christian medieval castle, with further fortifications added during the early modern period.
It played a strategic role in regional conflicts, including the Peninsular War, when it was stormed by allied forces under the Duke of Wellington.
Place Guide
Espantaperros Tower1169
An imposing 30-meter tall octagonal tower built in 1169, crowned by a small Mudéjar-style temple added in the 16th century. It served as a key defensive structure and lookout point within the Alcazaba.
Palace of the Dukes of Feria1387-1410
A Renaissance palace with Mudéjar architectural influences, built between 1387 and 1410 by Lorenzo Suárez de Figueroa, Grand Master of the Order of Santiago. It features a trapezoidal plan, a cloister, and a façade with a central arch linking two square towers. Today, it hosts the Provincial Archaeological Museum.
Great Mosque (now Santa MarĂa de Calatrava)12th century
Originally the main mosque of the Muslim palace within the Alcazaba, characterized by five naves separated by arches supported on columns, and external buttresses. It was converted into a Christian church after the conquest and served as the cathedral until the current one was built.
City Walls and Gates12th century
The extensive defensive walls, mostly Almohad in origin, span approximately 1,300 meters and are reinforced by multiple towers and gates such as Puerta del Capitel (an original Almohad gate), Puerta de Yelves, Puerta del Alpéndiz, and Puerta de la Coraxa.
Alcazaba Park
A large green space within the fortress grounds offering a peaceful environment and panoramic views of Badajoz and the surrounding landscape. It complements the historical experience with natural beauty.
