DEHUROEN

Plizio Visual Lab

Alcazaba of Almeria

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
castle
—°1
Alcazaba of Almeria (Spain)

Weather…

The Alcazaba of Almería is a massive fortified complex whose construction began in 955 under the orders of Abd-ar-Rahman III, the first Caliph of Córdoba. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, it ranks as the second-largest Muslim fortress in Spain, surpassed only by the Alhambra. The site is divided into three main enclosures: the first two are from the Moorish period and once contained residential quarters, lush gardens, and bathhouses. The third enclosure is a Christian castle built in the Gothic style by the Catholic Monarchs following the Reconquista in the late 15th century. Its imposing walls and towers were designed to defend the Mediterranean coast from pirate raids and served as a palatial residence for local rulers. The fortress has panoramic views of Almería's port and the surrounding landscape, highlighting its historical strategic importance. In modern times, the Alcazaba has gained fame as a filming location for high-profile productions like 'Game of Thrones' and 'Indiana Jones,' preserving its legacy as a cinematic and historical icon.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C891114182326262217129
Rain mm252329261441520263432

📋 Practical info

🚪
Visiting
The Alcazaba of Almería is open to visitors, and the impressive fortress complex can be fully explored. Entry is ticketed, but the courtyard and defensive walkways are accessible.
🕒
Typical hours
The Alcazaba is typically open Tuesday through Sunday, closed on Mondays. Hours vary seasonally, usually 9:00 AM-6:00 PM in winter, until 8:00 PM in summer.
📷
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the site; shots from the walls overlooking the city and sea are especially rewarding. Tripods are allowed but may be restricted in some areas.
⏱️
Time needed
A visit to the Alcazaba takes about 1.5 to 2 hours if you explore all areas. Allow extra time for a stroll through the adjacent gardens.
➕
Combine with
The Alcazaba overlooks the old town of Almería, which also houses the Cathedral of Almería. Combine the visit with a walk through the historic center and the port.
🧭
Getting there
The Alcazaba is a 15-minute walk from the city center, though the climb is steep. A lift from Paseo de Almería also provides easier access.
💡
Insider tip
Go early in the morning to avoid the heat and get the best light for photos. Bring water as there is little shade on site.

Geography

Coordinates
36.83940, -2.47140

Facts

  • The construction of the fortress was started in 955 by Caliph Abd-ar-Rahman III.
  • The entire complex covers an area of approximately 43,000 square meters.
  • The 'Torre del Homenaje' was built in 1489 following the surrender to the Catholic Monarchs.
  • A massive earthquake in 1522 destroyed much of the original Moorish structures inside.
  • The fortress is connected to the Hill of San Cristóbal by the historic Jayrán Walls.
  • The site has been used as a location for famous movies like 'Lawrence of Arabia' and 'Conan the Barbarian'.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

AlmeríaAlmería<1 km · SEExplore →
AguadulceAguadulce8 km · WExplore →
CostacabanaCostacabana8 km · EExplore →
El AlquiánEl Alquián11 km · EExplore →
RetamarRetamar15 km · EExplore →
Roquetas de MarRoquetas de Mar15 km · SWExplore →
Playa SerenaPlaya Serena19 km · SWExplore →
Cabo de GataCabo de Gata21 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Alcazaba of Almeria (1)

Playa de El Zapillo🎡 recreation

Playa de El Zapillo, a long urban sandy beach at the foot of Almería's Alcazaba.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Alcazaba of Almería?
It is a massive Moorish fortress, one of the largest of its kind in Spain.
When was it founded?
Construction began in 955 under Abd ar-Rahman III, the Caliph of Córdoba.
How many areas does the fortress have?
The complex consists of three large walled areas, including Moorish palace gardens and a Christian castle.
Was the Alcazaba used as a filming location?
Yes, scenes for films like 'Indiana Jones' and series like 'Game of Thrones' were filmed here.
Is entry free?
Entry is free for EU citizens, while other visitors pay a very small fee.
Alcazaba of Almeria: where is it located?
Alcazaba of Almeria is located in Galicia, Spain.
Alcazaba of Almeria: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Alcazaba of Almeria: why is it worth visiting?
The Alcazaba of Almería is a massive fortified complex whose construction began in 955 under the orders of Abd-ar-Rahman III, the first Caliph of Córdoba.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → Most beautiful beaches → OpenStreetMap →
Europe
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Europe
More places in Spain →

Nearby cities

Seville — Alcazaba of Almeria (Spain)
Seville
Seville is the capital of Andalusia and sits on the banks of the Guadalquivir River.
Málaga — Alcazaba of Almeria (Spain)
Málaga
Málaga is a port city on the Costa del Sol in southern Spain.
La Alberca — Alcazaba of Almeria (Spain)
La Alberca
La Alberca is a charming village in the province of Salamanca, known for its unique traditional architecture and for being the first Span…
Murcia — Alcazaba of Almeria (Spain)
Murcia
Murcia is located in southeastern Spain on the Segura River.
Puente Tocinos — Alcazaba of Almeria (Spain)
Puente Tocinos
Puente Tocinos, a district of Murcia, is famous for its tradition of crafting nativity scenes ('belenes').
Alicante — Alcazaba of Almeria (Spain)
Alicante
Alicante is a port city on the Costa Blanca in southeastern Spain.
Elche — Alcazaba of Almeria (Spain)
Elche
Elche is located in the Alicante province of southeastern Spain.
Almería — Alcazaba of Almeria (Spain)
Almería
Almería is a port city in Andalusia, known for its arid landscape and the massive Moorish fortress of Alcazaba.
Albacete — Alcazaba of Almeria (Spain)
Albacete
Albacete is located in the region of Castile-La Mancha.
Marbella — Alcazaba of Almeria (Spain)
Marbella
Marbella is a well-known resort city on the Costa del Sol.
Dos Hermanas — Alcazaba of Almeria (Spain)
Dos Hermanas
Dos Hermanas is a large city located near Seville.
Algeciras — Alcazaba of Almeria (Spain)
Algeciras
Algeciras is located in the Bay of Gibraltar in the far south of Spain.
Jaén — Alcazaba of Almeria (Spain)
Jaén
Jaén is located in northeastern Andalusia and is known as the 'World Capital of Olive Oil'.
Orihuela — Alcazaba of Almeria (Spain)
Orihuela
A city in the Alicante province with a significant monumental heritage.
Roquetas de Mar — Alcazaba of Almeria (Spain)
Roquetas de Mar
A major tourism and agricultural center in the Almería province.