THE ANDALUSIAN FORTRESS

During the Andalusian period, between the late eighth century and early nineth century, part of the Visigothic palace, already in ruins, underwent profound transformation by being converted into a fortress constructed over the remains of the western half of the largest building. Evidence of these renovations can be seen in the exterior walls that were reconstructed and reinforced; the interior compartmentalization; the construction of a tower at the western end; and the enclosing of two gates from the Visigothic period. The fortress protected an enclosure accessed through the monumental gate, now furnished with a closure system.