Castillo de la Concepción (Castle of the Conception), Cartagena

The Castle of the Conception is a medieval fortress that dates back to the 13th or 14th century, perched atop the hill of the same name. According to the Greek historian Polybius, during Roman times, a temple dedicated to the god Aesculapius stood on this hill. Evidence of this ancient past was uncovered during the recent castle restoration. The first floor of the castle was found to be constructed by repurposing Roman-made cisterns.

A closer look at the castle's structures and ruins revealed that it concealed remnants of towers that were part of a 12th-century Muslim citadel. The castle's lantern, a surviving structure from the Arab era, was once used as a lighthouse. During the reign of King Alfonso, the Order of Saint Mary of Spain was established in Cartagena to bolster naval efforts against Muslim forces. However, a series of naval disasters in which most of the order's ships were lost led to the order's dissolution. Consequently, the strategic importance of the Port of Cartagena waned, and the castle remained incomplete.

The entrance to the castle was marked by a grand monumental arch flanked by two towers known as the Gate of the Town, providing access to the entire walled area of the castle. The Castle of the Conception stands as a testament to Cartagena's rich and diverse history, from its ancient Roman roots to the era of Muslim rule and beyond, preserving the architectural and cultural heritage of the region.