Recinto abaluartado de Badajoz

In the heart of Badajoz, Spain, lies a formidable testament to centuries of military strategy and architectural evolution: the Recinto Abaluartado de Badajoz. This bastioned enclosure, an intricate network of walls, gates, bridges, forts, towers, bastions, hornworks, moats, galleries, and ravelins, was constructed between the 17th and 18th centuries. The fortification follows the defensive theories popularized by the French military engineer Sébastien Le Prestre, Marquis de Vauban, extending an earlier defensive structure that protected this border city.

A Historical Overview

Badajoz, founded by Ibn Marwan on a site with pre-existing Visigothic settlements, has always been a significant stronghold, a role it maintained until the 20th century. Its strategic location at the crossroads of two major communication routes—one connecting Castilla with Andalucía and the other linking the plateau with Lisbon—has made it a focal point of both development and conflict. As a border city with Portugal, Badajoz has seen numerous armies clash within its vicinity over the centuries, necessitating robust defensive measures.

The initial fortifications were commissioned by Ibn Marwan, who ordered the construction of mortar walls. These were followed by a restoration carried out by Abd Allah Ibn Muhammad Ibn Abd al-Rahman, the founder's grandson, in 913. Later, in 1030, Abdallah Ibn el-Aftas, the first Aftasid king of the Taifa of Badajoz, undertook further reconstruction. The Alcazaba, constructed in 1169, closely resembles its current form, with some parts dating back to the early Almohad period. The last Muslim restoration was ordered by Abu Yahya ibn Abi Sinan, governor of the city in the early 13th century.

The Evolution of the Fortifications

Following the conflicts between Castilla and Portugal in the 14th century, relations normalized, ushering in a period of peace that lasted nearly two and a half centuries. However, in 1640, when Portugal declared independence from the Spanish Monarchy, Badajoz once again became a border city. Recognizing the need to significantly enhance its defenses, the authorities of Castilla and Badajoz decided to implement the Vauban system, albeit in a somewhat improvised manner due to economic constraints.

The oldest part of Badajoz, located on the highest point of the promontory known as Cerro de la Muela, was originally defended by an Islamic-era enclosure, the Alcazaba. This fortress protected the al-qasbah, the citadel, which served as the administrative center and residence of the rulers of the Kingdom of Badajoz, one of the largest taifas in the Iberian Peninsula. The citadel housed the alcázar, the mosque, and one of the era's largest libraries. Over the centuries, the enclosure saw various expansions and modifications, reflecting its diverse functions: an Islamic alcazaba, a medieval Christian castle, and a modern fortification.

The Recinto Abaluartado: A Modern Marvel

By the late 17th century, between 1690 and 1700, construction began on the bastioned fortification, a new wall extending from the medieval wall along the left bank of the Guadiana River to the bastions of San Vicente and Puerta de Palmas. It then turned west and south, passing through the bastions of San José, Santiago, Santa María, and Puerta de Trinidad, finally connecting with the wall protecting the Alcazaba. Military maps from the period indicate that watchtowers from the Islamic era remained in use until the War of Independence, completing the defensive system.

In addition to the main enclosure, several isolated defensive structures were built, such as the San Cristóbal Fort on the northern promontory of Cerro de Orinaza, protecting the head of the bridge over the Guadiana River. This bridge was a crucial entry point to Badajoz, and its defense included the demolition of several arches, replaced by a drawbridge with three sections and parapets for the garrison's protection. The Pardaleras Fort was constructed shortly after, located at the opposite end of the city, to the south. Additional defensive elements, such as moats and walls, were added, though often without a coherent plan, resulting in limited effectiveness.

Exploring the Bastioned Enclosure Today

Today, visitors to the Recinto Abaluartado de Badajoz can explore this remarkable fortification, a living history book of military architecture. The walls, gates, and bastions offer a glimpse into the past, where each stone and brick tells a story of defense and resilience. Walking along the walls, one can imagine the soldiers who once stood guard, protecting their city from invaders.

The Alcazaba remains a central feature, with its imposing walls and towers providing a panoramic view of Badajoz and the surrounding landscape. The Torre de Espantaperros, one of the remaining watchtowers, stands as a testament to the city's Islamic heritage. The nearby Cathedral of Badajoz, resembling a fortress with its strong walls and battlements, adds to the historical ambiance, reminding visitors of the city's storied past.

In conclusion, the Recinto Abaluartado de Badajoz is more than just a fortification; it is a symbol of the city's strategic importance and resilience throughout history. Its walls have witnessed countless battles, periods of peace, and the evolution of military architecture. For history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike, a visit to this bastioned enclosure offers a fascinating journey through time, making it an unmissable attraction in the heart of Badajoz.