Castillo de Guzman el Bueno — Attraction in Tarifa

An excellent fortification steeped in history, well worth visiting and for a miniscule fee, €3. Some very good exhibits and wonderful views of Africa and the Straits of Gibraltar. This impressive, solidly-built Moorish fortification, which played an important part in early Spanish history, has been restored. As the southern-most point of the peninsula, Tarifa was an important strategic entry point into Spain and the rest of Europe for would-be invaders, so good defensive structures were essential. The Castle of Guzman El Bueno was originally built as an alcazar (Moorish fortress) in 960 AD on the orders of Caliph Abderraman III of Cordoba, to protect Tarifa against raids from Africa and the North (Vikings). The castle is now named after Alonso Perez de Guzman, who famously defending it from the Marinids (Moors) in the siege of 1294, when he sacrificed his son's life to save the town, and was given the title Duke of Medina Sidonia by the King (and named El Bueno, which means the Righteous rather than the Good) as a reward. Afterwards it was used as a garrison for Spanish troops over many centuries.

Tarifa is the southernmost place in mainland Europe, next stop Africa. Located at the end of the Iberian Peninsula, it is primarily known as one of the world's most popular destinations for wind sports. Tarifa lies on the Costa de la Luz and across the Strait of Gibraltar...

Castle offers great views of the strait, harbour, Med/Atlantic divide, and best of all Tangiers is super clear on a good day, the mountains of Morocco behind. You can really appreciate the geographical importance of this place as the tankers and mega container ships power across the azure waters. Newly upgraded museum for history of Tarifa, info on Guzmán el Bueno and siege of Tarifa story is not very prominent which is odd. Has very detailed exhibits on medieval siege warfare and castle architecture, not sure average visitor needs such level of info. Most interactive displays seemed to be kaputt. Big old place, you need 90 mins to get round battlements, tower, and cast a decent eye over exhibits. At 4€ per person, it's well worth the price even if you're more there for the views! Last entry was 15.15 but you can stay inside longer. Woman at entrance kiosk was...

Exterior of the castle creates a higher expectation. For us, it was a little bit underwhelming. Tickets are affordable and views from the top are great, but there are no interesting exhibitions (for us anyway, compared to other similar castles in Europe) and the courtyard is a mess. Greatest thing is the view or perhaps also the exhibition if you are looking for some specific information. For entertainment purposes it is not a place to visit. Finding a parking spot can be a real challenge. Best chance is somewhere on the Maria Coronel road - if you can find a spot (we visited July 2024 on workday,...