Castillo de San Sebastian (Castle of San Sebastian), Cadiz

The Castle of San Sebastian (Castillo de San Sebastian) is a historical fortress that stands on a small island off the coast of Cádiz. It has a rich and diverse history, which dates back to ancient times. According to tradition, the island was home to the Temple of Kronos, a titan of the Greek gods who was the father of some of the most powerful gods in Greek mythology.

Over time, the island became a strategic location for military purposes. In 1457, a Venetian boat crew raised a chapel on the island while recovering from the plague. However, it was not until 1706 that a proper castle was constructed to defend the northern flank of Cádiz from attack. The castle had an irregular plane and was fortified, and it included a watchtower built during the Muslim period at its base.

In 1860, a levee was constructed to link the island with the mainland. This allowed easier access to the fortress and made it possible to expand the castle. In 1908, architect Rafael de la Cerda designed an iron structure for the lighthouse on the island. It was the second electric-powered lighthouse in Spain and rose to a height of 41 meters above sea level.

Today, the Castle of San Sebastian is a cultural landmark in Spain. It was declared a cultural landmark in 1985 and is a popular destination for visitors to Cádiz. The fortress is open to the public, and visitors can explore its many rooms and towers, including the lighthouse. The castle provides stunning views of the sea and the surrounding area, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of Spain.