Monumental Ensemble of the Alcázar of Jerez and Camera Obscura

The Alcázar of Jerez de la Frontera is one of the few surviving examples of Almohad architecture in Spain.  

In addition, it is the oldest monument in Jerez. It occupies the southeastern corner of the city, being the most strategic and elevated point. Its exterior octagonal tower is also the tallest in the city.

Due to its roofing, it is dated back to the Almohad period, but some isolated preserved vestiges suggest its age may be greater. It stands as a Romanesque fortress (11th century), which witnessed the exploits of its governor Garci-Gómez Carrillo and the ensign Fortún de Torres.

The Alcázar itself is a square-shaped enclosure and is attached to the walls. It may have had at least eleven defensive towers, including the keep and the Octagonal Tower (formerly called "the gold").

Its construction is simple. But it has other defenses besides the walls, such as a barbican and two battlemented towers: the Octagonal Tower (worthy of mention in Jerez's annals, for having raised the Castilian royal standard for the first time) and the Keep which is adorned with royal towers and the coat of arms of the Ponce de León. 

There are three known doors that provide access to the site: the North, South, and East.

Inside this Monumental Ensemble stands out the City Gate, which is the only 12th-century access from Jerez to the fortified site. The Mosque also stands out, which is the only one preserved in the city. Also worthy of mention are the ablution courtyard, the baths, the gardens, and the Villavicencio palace (17th – 18th centuries).

Its registration as a Site of Cultural Interest took place on 4 June 1931, in the Monument category.
 

In the tower of the aforementioned Villavicencio palace, the Camera Obscura is installed, while in the palace itself there is a 19th-century pharmacy.

A 18th-century Oil Mill is also preserved.