• It stands on the hill that gives it its name, 1,033 metres up, in the municipality of Alcalá la Real.
  • The complex follows the classic model of the Muslim city, with separate enclosures for defensive, residential and religious purposes.
  • The watchtower-castle, built in the 11th century, marked the border between the kingdoms of Granada and Castile for many years.
  • In 1341 it passed for good into Christian hands, and until the fall of the kingdom of Granada it received large endowments from Castile; afterwards it was abandoned.
  • It was occupied by French troops in the 19th century, who did serious damage as they fled at the end of the Peninsular War. It was damaged again in the Spanish Civil War.