Torre de la Garrofa

Spain, Spain

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Torre de la Garrofa is a historic watchtower, also known as Torre de la Mona, perched on a dramatic cliff overlooking a secluded cove near La Garrofa in Almería, Andalusia, Spain. Built in 1575 by mason Pedro Bonilla as part of the coastal defense network against invasions, this cylindrical stone structure stands about 8 meters tall with a 7.4-meter diameter, featuring narrow loopholes for surveillance. Destroyed by the British in 1812 during the Peninsular War and later rebuilt in the 19th century, it served customs officers before being auctioned in 2002 and repurposed into a unique hotel with a boat-shaped annex, offering stunning Mediterranean views. Today, it's a protected cultural asset in good condition, accessible near a pebbly beach ideal for scuba diving, blending military history with modern tourism.