High value defensive architecture
The Castle of Oropesa del Mar
The orographic conditions of the site have favored its occupation from prehistoric times to contemporary times.
The castle was built approximately 1,200 years ago in Muslim times, it has an irregular polygonal plan, with a walled enclosure that connects a total of 5 towers. This first fortress was built with rammed earth, a typical Andalusian technique that consisted of mixing earth and lime in wooden molds. The Muslim population lived in the surroundings of the castle and in times of danger took refuge inside.
In 1233 the troops of Jaume I conquered the territory of Oropesa del Mar. From that moment on the castle and the lordship of Oropesa will pass through the hands of different feudal lords who will leave their mark on the castle. Among them stands out the figure of Jofré de Thous who in 1379 reinforced the castle and walled the town that stretched out at its feet to protect the inhabitants from pirate attacks.
In the 15th century Oropesa suffered continuous incursions by Barbary pirates that caused modifications and extensions to the castle with which it would reach its final physiognomy. In the year 1536, the Barbarossa pirate attacked and seized the fortress. Another of the most virulent attacks occurred in 1619, with almost 50 victims and as many captives.
In 1811, the castle experienced one of the most outstanding episodes in its history. The Napoleonic troops of Marshal Suchet attacked the town. After several weeks of siege they managed to take the castle and open a breach in its walls. The French troops were there until the month of July 1813 and at the time of their abandonment they flew and devastated the castle.
During the civil war of 1936 it was reoccupied momentarily with the establishment of a machine gun nest and the construction of some galleries inside.
Extension 1621 - Culture
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