ALCÁZAR DE JEREZ Y CÁMARA OSCURA

Description

The fortress (Alcázar of Jerez) dates back to the 12th century, although remodelled in the 15th century and modernised again in the 18th and 19th centuries. A quadrangular building of Almohad origin was first a residence for the Caliphs of Seville and later became headquarters of the first Christian governors after the city fell into the hands of King Alfonso X. Over the centuries, parts of the palace have been magnificently restored, including the Christianised mosque dedicated to the Virgen Mary, the Arab Baths, the Oil Mill and the beautiful palace gardens.

The Octagonal Tower, the Keep, the Ponce de León Towers, Arms Square, the two Gates of Entry and part of the original walls are the monument´s focal points. The 18th century Villavicencio Palace was built over the ruins of the former Islamic palace and is where the camera obscura (Latin for “darkened chamber”) is located. By means of a simple optic device, the viewer is able to enjoy a bird´s eye view of the town´s landmark monuments and surrounding countryside.