Fort of El Tolmo facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Fort of El Tolmo |
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| Native name Spanish: Fuerte de El Tolmo |
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| Location | Algeciras, Spain |
| Official name: Fuerte de El Tolmo | |
| Type | Non-movable |
| Criteria | Monument |
| Designated | 1985 |
| Reference no. | RI-51-0012210 |
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The Fort of El Tolmo (in Spanish: Fuerte de El Tolmo) was an important military building located in Algeciras, Spain. It was built to protect the coast and the nearby city. Today, only large ruins of the fort remain, showing us a glimpse of its past.
In 1985, the fort was recognized as a Bien de Interés Cultural, which means "Property of Cultural Interest." This special title is given to important historical or artistic sites in Spain to help protect them.
Contents
What was the Fort of El Tolmo?
The Fort of El Tolmo was a type of military building called a fortification. It was designed to defend the coast from attacks, especially from the sea. Forts like El Tolmo were very important for protecting cities and trade routes in the past.
When was the fort built?
The Fort of El Tolmo was completed in the year 1741. This was a time when many countries were building strong defenses to protect their lands. The fort was part of a larger network of coastal defenses in the area.
Where was the fort located?
The fort was built in Algeciras, a city in southern Spain. Algeciras is located on the Bay of Algeciras, which is a very strategic spot near the Strait of Gibraltar. This strait is a narrow waterway connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea, making it a key location for shipping and military control.
Why was the fort destroyed?
The Fort of El Tolmo stood for many years, but it was eventually destroyed in 1811. This happened during a major conflict known as the Peninsular War. This war was part of the larger Napoleonic Wars, where France fought against many European countries, including Spain and Britain.
The Peninsular War and its impact
During the Peninsular War, many forts and important buildings in Spain were damaged or destroyed. The Fort of El Tolmo was one of these structures. Its demolition was likely a strategic move by one of the warring sides, perhaps to prevent it from being used by the enemy.
What remains of the fort today?
Today, the Fort of El Tolmo exists only as ruins. These ruins are a reminder of its long history and the important role it played in defending the Spanish coast. Even though it's not a complete building anymore, its remains are still valuable for understanding the past.
Protecting historical ruins
Because the Fort of El Tolmo is a Bien de Interés Cultural, its ruins are protected by law. This means that efforts are made to preserve what is left of the fort. Studying these ruins helps historians and archaeologists learn more about military architecture and the history of the region.
See also
- In Spanish: Fuerte de El Tolmo para niños
