Despeñaperros Castle facts for kids
The Despeñaperros Castle, also known as San José Castle, is an old castle built in the 11th century. You can find it in the historic city of Cartagena, which is in the Murcia Region of Spain. This castle was officially recognized as an important cultural site on August 7, 1997.
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Discovering Despeñaperros Castle
Despeñaperros Castle is a fascinating historical building. It stands proudly in Cartagena, a city with a long and rich past. The castle has seen many centuries of history unfold around it.
Where is Despeñaperros Castle?
This ancient castle is located right in the heart of Cartagena, Spain. Cartagena is a port city on the Mediterranean coast. It's known for its naval history and ancient ruins. The castle sits in a strategic spot, overlooking the city.
What is the Castle Made Of?
The walls of Despeñaperros Castle are built from strong stone. This type of construction is called masonry. The stones are generally flat and fit together well. This made the castle very sturdy and difficult to attack in old times.
Exploring Inside the Castle
The inside of the castle is divided into two main areas. These are like two separate sections or levels.
The Lower Level
The lower part of the castle was designed for the people living there. It had rooms where soldiers and other occupants could stay. There was also a very important feature: a water reservoir. This reservoir would have stored water for everyone inside the castle. Having a water supply was crucial for survival during a siege.
The Upper Level
The upper part of the castle was used for defense. This is where the cannons were placed. From this higher position, the cannons could protect the castle and the city below. Over time, some of the original gun positions, or "gunships," have been lost or changed.
Why is Despeñaperros Castle Important?
The castle was declared a "Bien de Interés Cultural" on August 7, 1997. This Spanish term means "Asset of Cultural Interest." It's a special title given to important historical and artistic sites. This recognition helps protect the castle for future generations. It ensures that this piece of history is preserved and cared for.
See also
In Spanish: Castillo de Despeñaperros para niños
