AtlasIslamica

Sohail Castle

Built in AD 956 by Abd-ar-Rahman III to strengthen the coastal defenses, Sohail Castle is a castle in Fuengirola, Spain

Fuengirola, Málaga – Spain

Coordinates: 36.525347, -4.628740

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.

It’s been quite extensively restored, but this is useful in giving visitors a good understanding of how impressive the structure actually was in the past (rather than just looking at ruins).

The castle occupies a high position, with commanding views of Fuengirola, Fuengirola river, and the approaches to the town.

The inner courtyard of the castle is extensive, and there are useful, if brief, notices explaining who and what was based in the various parts of the building – with the remains of large stables, barracks, a forge and church clearly evident.

The walk around the high parapets behind the castle walls are the highlight of the visit,

The views of the mountains, town and sea are terrific, and antique cannons are still in place looking out over the Mediterranean Sea.

Know This

It’s situated at the southern end of a lovely long promenade of about 4 miles. The walk up to the castle is quite steep although the pathway doesn’t climb up directly but curves around the castle.

The views are amazing and the history is well displayed within the walls.