These dungeons once housed a great number of anonymous prisoners, about whom we will unfortunately never know anything, as well as some illustrious characters (including the Marquis of Valdeflores, the Count of Lumiares, the leaders of the separatists revolts on the island of Cuba, some liberal leaders, General Juan Prim and General Francisco Serrano Dominguez). Inside, visitors can also discover recreations of some of the torture machines used in our country throughout history.

The middle enclosure is home to the wide Weapons Courtyard, behind which lie the ruins of the hermitage of Santa Bárbara, the Guards’ Barracks and the Queen’s Bastion. This is a spacious, multi-purpose outdoor area with a large capacity. Located at the doorway of the Felipe II Hall, here, visitors will find a place that simply oozes magic and history in equal measures.

As well as the incredible panoramic views offered by the enclosure, from the terrace of the cafe and restaurant you can enjoy a drink and a bite to eat against the stunning backdrop offered by the sea and the castle’s Weapons Courtyard. What’s more, the castle’s surroundings offer one of the most characteristic images of the city, known as the Head of the Moor – a rocky profile located on the eastern slope of the mountain, visible from El Postiguet Beach.

In 1918, the castle was used to house cholera patients, before being used as a shelter for beggars, becoming the property of the City from 1929 onwards. The fortress’ old hospital hosts the “Alicante transfused with Mediterranean” exhibition, which presents the link between Alicante and the Mediterranean, interspersed with archaeological and ethnological materials.