Fortress of Velez-Malaga

Vélez-Málaga, Spain, Spain

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Fortress of Vélez-Málaga, also known as the Alcazaba, in Vélez-Málaga, Spain, is a 10th-century Moorish fortress built on the highest hill overlooking the town to subdue local populations and control the strategic route between Granada and the coast.

Expanded in the 13th-14th centuries under Nasrid rule into a defensive stronghold with double enclosures, a prominent Tower of Homage, outer walls sheltering residents, and inner buildings for fortification, it protected against Reconquista threats and later pirate raids.

Heavily damaged during the French invasion and repurposed over time as a residence, jail, and town hall, its restored keep and walls now offer panoramic views amid the old town it helped spawn.