Sohail Castle, Fuengirola, Spain

Sohail Castle was built in AD 956 by Abd-ar-Rahman III to strengthen the coastal defenses. Later, in the 12th century, the Almoravids raised a defensive enclosure with an irregular floor plan, adapted to the slopes of the terrain.

In 1485 the Castillo de Sohail was occupied by the Christian armies battling against the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada. From that time the military complex underwent an inevitable process of architectural reformation which led over time to its current appearance.

Shortly after the castle lost its military function and was disposed of by public auction. The change to civilian hands initiated a period of neglect which was only interrupted in the second half of the 20th century.

In 2000 the Town of Fuengirola renovated the ruins of the castle turning it into a tourist attraction and functioning space used for concerts and other festivals. Excavated stone ruins on public display at the western base of the hill on which the castle sits are dated back to before the Roman Republic occupied Fuengirola at least 300 BC.

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User Reviews

Markku Korkiakoski (4 months ago)
Free entry. Nice view over bay.

Henry Monaghan (5 months ago)
Fantastic visit to a castle with two thousand years of history. Good for a walk along or a taxi, fascinating from a historical point of view.

Mark McCorry (6 months ago)
A stunning castle with amazing views along the coast. Opening times are 10.00 to 14.00 entrance is free of charge.

dave pelton (6 months ago)
Free entrance to this lovely place of Spanish history. Quite a steep climb up to the top, but well worth it for the views.

Lukasz Taborski (11 months ago)
Built in 956, so over a thousand years of history of the castle from which you have a perfect view of the surrounding areas (beach, mountains). Going up the hill, notice how many parrots live in the treetops. Entrance free.

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Photo from Flickr, copyright Mark1792

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