Torre del Tostón facts for kids
The Torre del Tostón is an old defense tower. People also call it "Castillo de El Cotillo." You can find it in the town of el Cotillo. This town is on the coast of Fuerteventura, an island in Spain. In 1949, it was named an important historic building. Today, artists show their work there. It is also a popular place for tourists to visit. Many people go there for great views of the island.
Contents
History of Torre del Tostón
The first tower here was built a long time ago. A French explorer named Jean de Bethencourt started it. This was when people first began to settle the Canary Islands. That first tower was called "el Castillo de Rico Roque."
Around the year 1700, a new tower was built. It was made on the old tower's ruins. A military engineer named Claudio de L'Isle built it. This new tower was named "Torre de Nuestra Señora del Pilar y San Miguel."
Why the Tower Was Built
The tower had two floors. It also had three strong iron cannons. These cannons were used to protect the coast. They also kept boats safe in the port of El Cotillo. The tower helped defend against pirates. These pirates came from places like France, England, and North Africa. They were known as Barbary pirates.
Towers Like Torre del Tostón
.jpg)
The Canary Islands have many defense towers. Several of them look very similar to Torre del Tostón. They have the same design and features. In 1949, Torre del Tostón was added to a list of important Spanish cultural sites. This list is called "Bien de Interés Cultural."
Other Similar Towers
Here are some other castles and towers that are almost identical:
- Torre de San André (Tenerife)
- Torre de Gando (Gran Canaria)
- Torreón de San Pedro Mártir (Gran Canaria)
- Castillo de San Buenaventura (Fuerteventura)
- Castillo de las Coloradas (Lanzarote)
See also
In Spanish: Castillo de El Cotillo para niños
