 Originally built by the Romans in the 1st century B.C. the remains of the Almunecar castle, known as Castillo San Miguel is still a famous landmark in the town of Almunecar. Although built by the Romans it was the Moors who developed the castle into an impressive fortress consisting of 46 towers and turrets, 3 main gates and 3 walled precincts. During the Middle Ages the Nasrid kings in Granada used Almunecar castle as their coastal retreat. On December 30th 1489 the Christians conquered Almunecar and during their rule Almunecar castle was remodeled and named after the town`s new patron saint, San Miguel. The main entrance of four towers and the dry moat were all built during this era. For the next 300 years Almunecar castle continued guarding the town, though this time the threats came more from the sea, as the troops were required to defended the people against Berber pirates who roamed the waters, taking prisoners, murdering and plundering whenever they had the opportunity. During the War of Independence, Almunecar was occupied by Napoleon's troops and the fortifications were attacked from the sea by British warships, causing a lot of damage and essentially putting Almunecar castle out of action. After the French left Spain in 1814, it fell into disuse and was finally claimed as the town's cementery for which it was used for almost 150 years. In the early 1980's, restoration work began, and although the the entire complex of Almunecar Castle has still not been investigated there is enough evidence to make out most of the key stages of the castles´history. Opening Times 10.30-13.30 and 17.30-20.00 (Tuesday to Saturday)
10.30-14.00 (Sundays and Holidays)
Closed Mondays
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