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The Castillo de San Sebastián is a fortress in Cádiz located at one end of La Caleta. Its specific location is on an islet, which according to classical tradition is the site once occupied by the Temple of Kronos.
The ancient castle was built in the early 17th century and transformed in 1706. At that time, an irregularly shaped fortified enclosure was constructed to defend the northern flank of Cádiz. It had the shape of a nine-sided polygon with two inward angles and the rest projecting outward.
The entire island was protected by a parapet around its perimeter, except on the southern front, which had a natural defence. The perimeter parapet had gunports, and there was a water moat with two drawbridges. In front of the moat, there was a parade ground to defend the entire island territory. In the north-western corner, there was a watchtower and the hermitage of San Sebastián.
In the most advanced area, a casemated battery or causeway was built to connect the island with the urban centre of Cádiz (1860).
Inside the fortress, a lighthouse 30.10 meters high was erected on the base of a Moorish watchtower, according to the project by Rafael de la Cerda in 1907. It is the only lighthouse with an iron structure in Spain; being the second electric one in the country, standing 41 meters above sea level. This lighthouse was restored in 2017.
It was declared a Site of Cultural Interest on 25 June 1985.
A very interesting monument due to its shape. Owing to its originality and being located over the sea, it has been the setting for various films shot in Cádiz. Examples include Alatriste (2005), or “Die Another Day” from James Bond (2002). Today it hosts exhibitions and events.
Built: 17th – 19th centuries
Author: Anónimo
Style: Modern military architecture
Category: Military
Type: Castle
Discover Gibraltar, a charming British enclave in southern Europe.
Departing from Cádiz, enjoy scenic views of oak forests and picturesque white villages along the way.
Once in Gibraltar, you’ll visit the Rock’s Natural Reserve, the Pillars of Hercules viewpoint, St. Michael’s Cave, and get up close to the famous Gibraltar monkeys. You’ll also have free time for lunch and a stroll along lively Main Street before heading back.
A perfect day trip combining history, nature, and something truly different.
Step into Monumental Cádiz with this guided tour.
Explore in detail the city’s iconic Cathedral and its Museum, as well as Cádiz’s most famous watchtower: the Tavira Tower — home to the unique Camera Obscura.
Admission tickets are included. Don’t miss this opportunity!
If you're visiting Cádiz for a short time and want a quick yet complete overview, this is your best option: Panoramic Guided Tour of Cádiz.
With an Official Guide and Heritage Interpreter, you'll travel through 3,000 years of Cádiz's history.
You'll be amazed at how much you can discover in just 90 minutes.
Dive into ancient Gades—Roman Cádiz—with this guided tour. Discover the strategic importance it once held within the Roman Empire.
Explore archaeological remains that still coexist with the modern city: the Roman Theatre, the ancient salt-fish factories, and the area around San Antonio, where a necropolis was uncovered.
An ideal route to travel back in time and discover the Roman imprint that remains alive in Cádiz.
Address and telephone
Opening times
Currently, the castle is temporarily closed.
Prices
Free entry.
If you see any mistakes or want to add anything to this information, please contact us.
Discover Gibraltar, a charming British enclave in southern Europe.
Departing from Cádiz, enjoy scenic views of oak forests and picturesque white villages along the way.
Once in Gibraltar, you’ll visit the Rock’s Natural Reserve, the Pillars of Hercules viewpoint, St. Michael’s Cave, and get up close to the famous Gibraltar monkeys. You’ll also have free time for lunch and a stroll along lively Main Street before heading back.
A perfect day trip combining history, nature, and something truly different.
Step into Monumental Cádiz with this guided tour.
Explore in detail the city’s iconic Cathedral and its Museum, as well as Cádiz’s most famous watchtower: the Tavira Tower — home to the unique Camera Obscura.
Admission tickets are included. Don’t miss this opportunity!
If you're visiting Cádiz for a short time and want a quick yet complete overview, this is your best option: Panoramic Guided Tour of Cádiz.
With an Official Guide and Heritage Interpreter, you'll travel through 3,000 years of Cádiz's history.
You'll be amazed at how much you can discover in just 90 minutes.
Dive into ancient Gades—Roman Cádiz—with this guided tour. Discover the strategic importance it once held within the Roman Empire.
Explore archaeological remains that still coexist with the modern city: the Roman Theatre, the ancient salt-fish factories, and the area around San Antonio, where a necropolis was uncovered.
An ideal route to travel back in time and discover the Roman imprint that remains alive in Cádiz.
