General information
| Destination | Category |
|---|
| Alicante, Spain | Attractions/Entertainment |
Program details
Perched high above the historic city of Lorca is the 13th century castle popularly known as La Fortaleza del Sol (the Fortress of the Sun). Marked out by its two famous towers, Espolón and Alfonsina, the castle is a window on the past that allows you to learn about its rich history through exhibitions, guided visits and workshops, which are held all year round.
The principal ruins unearthed so far are those of the Jewish quarter and a synagogue from the 15th century. The remains constitute an important milestone in the understanding of Jewish culture in medieval times. See how patios, houses and bathhouses were built during this period, which has enabled scholars to learn about the daily lives of the area’s Jews more than 500 years ago before they were expelled.
Excavations are continuing in the dig, so you can also learn about the work carried out by the archaeologists as well as seeing the findings. The synagogue is the most representative and best conserved part of the Jewish quarter. It is also the only synagogue open to the public in Spain that wasn’t later converted into a church. This allows you to contemplate the remains just as they were left by the Jews who prayed here at the end of the 15th century.
There are two options: a free visit (every day) to the castle only or to the castle, archaeological remains and the synagogue, or a guided tour (weekends only) of all the attractions.
Meeting/pick-up point: Calle Puerta de San Ginés, s/n.
Start/opening time: 10.30am.
End/closing time: 6.30pm (5.30pm in winter).
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