La Alcazaba, Almeria

Out and About in Almeria No 9.

In the year 955, Adb al-Rahman III, the first caliph of Al-Andalus, ordered the construction of the Alcazab, the Greater Mosque, and the fortification of the urban area between the fortress and the seashore.

Under its protection, Almeria became the most impiortant port in Al-Andaluus and the headquarters of the Ulmayyad fleet and it's Admiral.   Muslim texts refer to Almeria as the best market in Muslim Spain.

When the Catholic Monarchs entered Almeria they found the Alcazaba partially destroyed by the earthquake of 1487.   They orderd a castle to be built at the western end of the fortress which was completed in 1534 - A Christian castle within the fortress.

Excavations are still ongoing unearthing the foundations of the Muslim buildings.

The main picture is looking towards San Cristobal Hill, extras are views around the fortress and the one looking towards the cave dwellings still occupied.

Always a great place to visit with free entry for EU members.