Castle of Sancti Petri

San Fernando, Spain

Situated on the little island, the defensive Sancti Petri fortification was once one of a series of forts that protected the inlet, Caño de Sancti Petri. Of irregular shape and in the Moorish style, it dates from the 13th century. During the 1st century, the Phoenicians settled on the island, founding a temple dedicated to Melqart, their god. When the Romans arrived they dedicated the temple to Hercules.

The castle's watchtower is the oldest building, while the walls and the interior date from the 18th century. The castle was in an advanced state of deterioration, but the authorities of the municipalities of San Fernando and Chiclana de la Frontera funded a major rehabilitation programme.

References:

Wikipedia

Address

San Fernando, Spain

See all sites in San Fernando

Details

Founded: 13th century
Category: Castles and fortifications in Spain

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

Rating

4.2/5 (based on Google user reviews)

Interesting Sites Nearby

Ermita de Santa Ana (7,3 km)

Cádiz Cathedral (17,9 km)
Basílica de Santa María de la Asunción (55,2 km)
Arcos de la Frontera Castle (55,1 km)
Roman Theatre (17,8 km)
Jerez de la Frontera Cathedral (34,3 km)
Alcazar of Jerez de la Frontera (34,2 km)
Torre Tavira (18,3 km)
Santa Catalina Fortress (18,8 km)
Museum of Cádiz (18,6 km)

User Reviews

Ruben Rietveld (16 months ago)
First and foremost, the island, the history, the atmosphere and the view are all mesmerizing, the boat ride to the island is pleasant as well. However, the website itself is a bit misleading. We booked the sunset trip from 19.30-22.30, giving you near 3 hours on the island. The website advertises two beaches, but access to both was closed, meaning we brought our beach / swim gear in vain. Also, the restaurant advertised on the website only serves potato salad and crisps, while we thought we'd have dinner on the island. We had a great time, but left very hungry as many guests did: we met a dozen of them at the pizza take out place nearest to the port. All by all, definitely worth the trip, but bring food / and or eat prior.

Harry Pallas (3 years ago)
Scenic historic location best visited by kayak

Janura Bladesbane (5 years ago)
Amazing history and a fun trip across the bay.

Osswen Cashtrain (5 years ago)
Wonderful sight. Rich history.

Janura Bladesbane (5 years ago)
Amazing history and a fun trip across the bay.

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Photo from Flickr, copyright @Maitri

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Vufflens Castle

Vufflens castle was built in 1425 on the site of a previous medieval castle by Henri de Colombier. It is the most significant example of a small group of fortified Romandy castles from the middle ages, characterised above all by its brick construction. In 1530, it was set on fire by Bernese troops. In 1641 it was acquired by the de Senarclens family. The castle is currently privately owned and cannot be visited.

A pleasant 30 minute-walk through the vineyards between Vufflens-le-Château and Denens, offers a stunning view of this magnificent castle, the lake and the Mont-Blanc.