Castle of Jimena de la Frontera facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Castle of Jimena de la Frontera |
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| Native name Spanish: Castillo de Jimena de la Frontera |
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| Location | Jimena de la Frontera, Spain |
| Official name: Castillo de Jimena de la Frontera | |
| Type | Non-movable |
| Criteria | Monument |
| Designated | 1931 |
| Reference no. | RI-51-0000500 |
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The Castle of Jimena de la Frontera is an old castle in Jimena de la Frontera, Spain. It's also known as Castillo de Jimena de la Frontera in Spanish. This important historical site was officially recognized in 1931.
The castle sits on the edge of Jimena de la Frontera in the Province of Cádiz. It was first built by the Moors, who ruled parts of Spain in the 8th century. The castle was one of many strongholds. It helped protect the area around Gibraltar and the Bay of Algeciras. This bay was home to Algeciras, an important Moorish city and fortress.
A Look Back: The Castle's Story
This fortress was probably built on the remains of an even older city called Oba. This ancient city dated back to the time before the Romans. Because of its great location near Gibraltar, the castle was a very important Moorish stronghold. It played a big role during the time Muslims ruled the Iberian Peninsula.
The people from Jerez took control of the castle in 1430. But the Moorish Kingdom of Granada took it back in 1451. Then, in 1465, it became part of the Kingdom of Castille. It was owned by the crown. In 1931, the castle was named a national monument of Spain. It was described as the building that best shows the town of Jimena de la Frontera.
Exploring the Castle's Design
The castle has strong outer defenses. These include a long, uneven wall. This wall follows the shape of the hilly land. Watchtowers are placed along this wall at regular distances.
The most famous tower is the Torre del Reloj, also called Albarrán. This means "Clock Tower" in English. Together, the towers offer a great view and defense. They create a strong area where defenders could easily see and protect. There are also different trenches around the castle. These were dug at various times in history.
Inside the walls, you'll find the Alcázar. This part of the castle was built or fixed up after Christians took over. The Torre del Homenaje (Tower of Homage) stands out from the Alcázar. It has a large round dome and is 13 meters (about 43 feet) tall. This makes it the tallest tower in the castle. Inside the Torre del Homenaje, there's an older tower with a different shape. It was likely built over after the Christian takeover.
Gallery
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Castle door from inside
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Town of Jimena from the Castle
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Castle view from Jimena
See also
In Spanish: Castillo de Jimena de la Frontera para niños
