Castle of La Concepción

The Castle of La Concepción, known locally as Castillo de la Concepción, stands majestically on the hill of the same name, overlooking the historic city of Cartagena and its bustling port in the Region of Murcia, Spain. This medieval fortress, dating back to the 13th or 14th century, is not only an architectural marvel but also a symbol of the city's rich and varied history.

The Origins of the Castle

The origins of the Castle of La Concepción are shrouded in mystery. According to the ancient Greek historian Polybius, the hill once hosted a Roman temple dedicated to the god Asclepius. Recent restorations have uncovered Roman cisterns beneath the castle's first floor, suggesting that these could be remnants of the temple or perhaps a Byzantine structure. These findings highlight the site's long-standing significance, stretching back to ancient times.

The Arab Alcazaba

Contrary to earlier beliefs that Cartagena had diminished in importance during the Muslim rule, various Arab sources reveal that the city flourished from the 10th century onwards, especially during the 12th century. Excavations in the old town, particularly around the Roman Theatre, have uncovered remnants of Arab settlements. Studies of certain towers and ruins indicate that parts of the current castle walls conceal towers from a 12th-century Muslim fortress, known as an alcazaba. The castle's lantern, which once served as a lighthouse, is a surviving relic from this period.

The Castle of Alfonso X the Wise

For many years, it was believed that the castle's current configuration was established during the reign of Henry III of Castile in the 14th century. However, recent research suggests that its construction began earlier, during the 13th century, following the Reconquista. After Alfonso X the Wise, then an infante, conquered Cartagena in 1245, he set about restoring the ancient episcopal seat of the Diocese of Carthaginensis and fortifying the city with a castle on its highest point, where the alcazaba once stood.

At that time, Cartagena was the only Mediterranean port under the Crown of Castile, nestled between the Crown of Aragon and the Kingdom of Granada. The port's strategic importance was crucial for Alfonso X's military policies. The layout of the Castle of Cartagena bears a striking resemblance to the castles of Aledo and Lorca, sharing several stonemasonry marks.

During Alfonso's reign, the Order of Santa María de España was established in Cartagena to combat the Muslims at sea. However, several naval disasters led to the order's dissolution, reducing the port's strategic significance and leaving the castle unfinished. The grand entrance to the castle, known as the Puerta de la Villa, was flanked by two towers and provided access to the entire walled enclosure.

The Tower of Homage

Within the walled enclosure, the Tower of Homage, called El Macho, stands out. Constructed with large limestone blocks from Cabezo Gordo in Torre-Pacheco and pink travertine from Mula, the tower features numerous reused Roman stones and inscriptions, including a large tombstone of Lucius Aemilius Rectus serving as the lintel of the tower's entrance. Some historians believe that the tower was originally intended to have a second complete floor, which would have given it a final appearance similar to the Alfonsine Tower of Lorca Castle.

Decay and Restoration

As the castle lost its defensive function, it fell into disrepair and began to deteriorate. By the early 20th century, the city council considered demolishing it. Fortunately, this plan was never carried out. During the dictatorship of Primo de Rivera, the entire site was transformed into a large public park with gardens, ponds, and animals, popularly known as the Castle of the Ducks. Despite this, the castle continued to lie in ruins.

Finally, with the establishment of the Cartagena Puerto de Culturas consortium, a partial restoration of the castle was undertaken. The Tower of Homage was converted into an interpretation center for the history of Cartagena, allowing visitors to delve into the city's past while exploring the castle's storied walls.

In conclusion, the Castle of La Concepción is not just a historical monument but a testament to Cartagena's enduring legacy. Its walls whisper tales of ancient civilizations, medieval battles, and cultural transformations, making it an unmissable attraction for anyone visiting this vibrant city. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy panoramic views of Cartagena, a visit to the Castle of La Concepción promises an unforgettable experience.