monumental ensemble of la alcazaba

A fabulous, free, site but a bit of a climb for anyone with mobility difficulties. Lovely views over the city and surrounding area.

It looks impressive enough from the port but much more so when you get there. Entry is free to EU citizens and the view from the top of the complex over the harbour, the old town and the wider landscape is amazing. The layout of the interior is typically Moorish, with water features that make it a very relaxing spot to visit and maybe have a picnic. The first time I was there, a traditional wedding was being held (women in montillas etc) and it felt like going back in time. It is particularly impressive if you are in town for "Three Kings"on the night of January 5th, when the kings emerge from the main gate and mount their camels prior to leading the procession into town.

the place was huge. you dont realise until you get in there. it seems to go on and on. certainly dont miss a trip to this place.quite easy to walk to aswell.

The Alcazaba of Almeria is one of the major Islamic sights of Andalucia and is a must see destination for anyone interested in this part of Spanish history. A couple of years ago my wife and I took a drive along the coast from Malaga to get here and that was enjoyable in its own right. Parking in Almeria is easy enough with a little forward planning or gps. You will need a map from Tourist Information or your own device get to the Alcazaba. The walk to it takes you through some areas which might be deemed a little rough but keep going. The first thing you are aware of is the size of the place. It's very large and divided into three enclosures with beautiful fountains and garden areas between each one. The last enclosure was constructed during the reign of Ferdinand and Isabella but the Alcazaba remains a Muslim monument in spirit. When the sun shines, and it shines so brightly here, and you look towards the sea and see the way it glimmers, it really does make you think that Almeria - Mirror of the Sea - is the correct name. Across the expanse of the sea lies Africa and it is interesting to think that the only way people in the past came here was by sea. Of the other great port cities in Spain, none has a greater pull towards the Islamic world. Looking over the north side of the walls is the sobering view of the largely gypsy barrio known as La Chanca which is considered to be one of the most impoverished spaces in Spain. A reminder of the modern city as well as its incredible past. There is much to occupy you in the grounds as well as the great views. Within this magnificent citadel, however, you should allow your imagination to run riot. Almeria - Mirror of the Sea.

I wasn't expecting much when I wandered in to visit this last week, but I was absolutely blown away by this place. I have visited the Alhambra before, and while it holds its own as a beautiful castle, Almeria's Alcazaba is not far behind in concept and location grandeur. Sure, the Alcazaba has few of the architectural decorations that make the Alhambra stunning, but what sets the Alcazaba apart is the majestic view out over the landscape of hills, city, and sea.The museum is free for residents of the EU, and not very much for anyone else. I stopped by the entry booth to get a brochure in English and then entered through the series of gates. The lower gardens are very relaxing and beautiful, especially on a lovely sunny day. The water fountains trickling everywhere were very soothing, and the bathrooms were conveniently located nearby :) The upper castle area is a unique look at archaeological excavations underway, with signs representing the ruins very well. The two reconstructed houses are beautiful exhibits in their own right, and a fantastic glimpse into medieval life in the castle. The fortress at the very top is interesting but not very charming. The best views are from the wall that divides the upper castle area from the gardens below, where you can climb steps to the ramparts and look out over everything and take amazing panorama photographs. The cats are also very friendly.Make sure to stop by this beautiful castle if you visit Almeria, it is worth it.

A well preserved and maintained monument with a great vantage point over the city and the sea. Certainly worth a visit, particularly if you enjoy history. The negatives are that there are no guided tours or audio programs (they do have a printed guide) and Almeria from above isn't that interesting to look at. The gardens inside are quite nice but are clearly not of historical value.

This is a fascinating piece of restoration. We visited thinking we were mainly going to enjoy the panoramic views. We did not realise just how extensive the who fortress and palace is, and juts how much we would learn of life within it in the 12th, 14th and 15th centuries. A terrific visit (free for EU residents). There is even a little gallery in the palace, which was showing an excellent little exhibition of modern photographs. The gardens are fantastic, even in late autumn.

We went early in the morning when it opened at 10am. It was at the end of October and was still very warm. It is a well preserved and maintained property and we were pleased to get in free when asked our nationality, we took our passport but did not need to show it.Lovely gardens and two preserved houses to look at. We were given an english leaflet which explained everything about the place. Do go. Wear good walking shoes and take some water. there is no cafe in there, there should be its a wonderful place to drink a cup of coffee. There is a vending machine for soft drinks.

Excellent tourist attraction, very interesting, however very busy. You need to book beforehand. Well organised for tours and good information booklet with clear maps

We toured Alcazaba on a Saturday afternoon. It was a great precursor to our visits to Alhambra and Alcazar. They had informative artifacts inside and great views of the city. Unfortunately part of the complex was shut off for the filming of a movie on site.

We visited here in 1990's and it has improved beyond measure. The climb up into the entrance is well worth the trouble, into the beautiful gardens, along the elevated walls overlooking the Port and harbour of Almeria, up to the cannons and then to the residential area currently being restored. Two medieval houses are now open with excellent historic explanations and plenty of toilets around with the odd dispensing machine for drinks and snacks. Shame there is no cafe as a rest area would be really good here and as the Fort is free (!) then most people would probably be happy to spend a little.It could well be hot in the summer and make sure you know the route there, park down by the port €2 for half a day and walk up. Then enjoy a nice lunch on the way back in the port side cafes.

If you dont mind climbing some steps it is worth to see the gardens. Was hoping to see more intact residents homes but only ruins to see.. Very good that every corner has it explenation in english as well to get a better view how it was in the past. Use good navigation to get there or get totally lost in the streets and end up in the ghettos like we did on first try. :)Too bad you cant walk to the other mountain with other buildings that look really interesting as well. Overall its good to seen it once..

Quite a lot of walking, I believe there are 400 steps in all. You will need sunscreen as there is not much shade., and good walking shoes. It is situated high on a hill, overlooking the city of Almeria.The fortress has cannons, and interesting use of water. Water coming down the stairs., and fountains. Very pretty. There is a small cost, unless you are a EU citizen.

A great way to discover the history of almeria - very peaceful. To avoid during the middle of the day tho

Having visited the Alhambra two years ago we were a little apprehensive on our approach to what might have appeared to be "the poor man's Alhambra." How wrong could we be!! Yes it is the same sort of attraction but it has its own aura and ethos. There is on-going archaeological work which is well documented throughout the site and although smaller than its more famous neighbour in Granada there is a great deal to find impressive and attractive in this spot in Almeria. An interesting addition is a small room equipped with tables, chairs and vending machines selling soft drinks where visitors can find shade from the heat and enjoy their own food without the pressure of buying overpriced items from a franchise. A very enjoyable visit lasting just over a couple of hours. Good tip - if you are from the EU and take your passport entry is FREE and that appeals to a Scotsman!!