Castle of Lorca

Spain, Spain

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Castle of Lorca, known as the Fortress of the Sun, is a massive medieval stronghold in Lorca, Murcia region of Spain, constructed progressively from the 9th century by Muslim rulers through the 15th century under Christian control, spanning 640 meters long and 120 meters wide as one of Spain's largest castles.

Originally a Moorish citadel guarding southeastern trade routes, it became a vital Reconquista frontier bastion after Alfonso X's 13th-century conquest, featuring key towers like the rectangular Alfonsina with Gothic vaults and arrow slits, the Espolón Tower, and extensive walls mostly rebuilt in stone that erased much of the original Islamic structure save foundations and the Espaldón wall.

Damaged by the 2011 earthquake but declared a Cultural Interest site, it offers panoramic city views and symbolizes centuries of border conflicts between Castile and Granada.