Andalucía 2024 - The Alcazaba Complex, Almeria

My first port of call was Almeria, a beautiful port town east of Malaga.  Commanding superlative views across the town towards the Mediterranean, the Alcazaba complex is simply spectacular.  

The word Alcazaba, from the Arabic word (القَصَبَة; al-gasabah), signifies a walled fortification in a city. 

In 955, Almería was given the title of medina (“city”) by the Caliph of Cordoba Abd al-Rahman III.  Construction of the defensive citadel, located in the upper sector of the city, began in that year.   Provided not only with walls and towers but also with squares, houses, and a mosque, it was to be the seat of the local government, commanding the city and the sea below.   Its purpose was to protect the area’s largest city at the time.

The rest of my time in Almeria was spent walking the streets, soaking up the incredible atmosphere, a blend of Europe and Africa.  And searching for cats!  

My first encounter with Almerian stray moggies was at the Alcazaba.  They were so friendly and clearly well fed and looked after.  In fact, it seemed they ruled the place!

Then on the winding streets just below the citadel, I started keeping an eye out for them.  Some were timid, some bold, but most looked in good shape and were happy for me to photography them.

Almeria port includes the incredible Cable Ingles, or English Pier!  An ancient loading pier that was used in the 20th century to transport iron from the train station to the cargo ships docked in the port of Almeria.  I’ve included two iPhone photos.  You can walk right to the end  of the pier to enjoy extensive views out to sea and back towards Almeria.  The train tracks are still visible. It’s made of iron, steel and concrete and has been declared a Cultural Heritage Site.