Castillo de la Duquesa

This 18th century castle (only a few minutes from my place) was built as a barracks for the military of the day. When I first visited it, forty years ago, it housed 13 families. Several families would share a living space, just separated from their neighbours by a simple curtain.

All around the site there was was an important Roman settlement and bath house. The industry was fishing, and making the popular fish paste - Garrum. The jar below is said to be a Garrum jar. The site is in the process of being excavated. In the castle there is a Museum of Archaology to house many of the 'finds'; pottery, glass, jewelery, fishhooks, etc. Now the Castle is used for cultural events; lectures, concerts, and as a wedding venue.

The Castillo also has a Museum of Fencing, which it is defined as swordmanship in general. With this broad definition, it is possible to include the weapons used in cave paintings - and certainly King Arthur's sword Excaliber.

Roman ruins; Baleo Caudia

The Roman ruins of Baleo Claudia near Tarifa, are in a stunning position beside a long sandy beach. Before going there check opening times, which vary with the seasons; and use a map and follow signposts carefully. The car park is beside the museum.

The most important industry of Baleo Claudio was garrum; a highly prized fish paste, that was exported all over the Roman Empire! Near the beach there are many large tanks cut into the rock in which the garrum was made. Salt and herbs were pounded together with the fish.

After visiting the ruins, enjoy eating at one of the delightful beachside restaurants nearby; stroll along the sands or have a swim. This place is only about an hour from my place! Or stop over at one of the nearby camp grounds or in a hostal or hotel in Zahara.

My Love of Special Places in Spain

These Roman baths are off the typical tourist beat, in a hidden valley, along a very bumpy pot-holed road. The spring that feeds them runs year round with sulphur in the water which gives it the blue colour. It is said that the water has been used for healing since Roman times. The water runs into a stream outside - still pale blue.

This delightful place is less than half an hour from my rental property! However, as there is not much parking space, I avoid going there at weekends.