Torre El Catalán (El Catalán Tower)

It is a beacon that dates form the beginning of the 17th century. Its construction was ordered by Philip II as part of a defensive scheme of the south-eastern coast of the peninsula, in order to defend the coast against attacks by Berber pirates and to protect the West Indies fleet. To warn of the danger of intrusion by enemy vessels, fire signals were made during the night and smoke signals were made or white cloths were waved during the day. This tower is located on one of the age-old peaks that border on the coast line, halfway between La Antilla and El Terrón, to the south of the town, at 120 feet above sea level. It has the shape of a stunted trunk and a hallway with a rectangular base that can be accessed through a jack arched gate. It is roofed by a dome that contains a single circular chamber. It is well preserved. Nowadays it is rather distant from the sea because of the strong erosion the area has suffered by the waves. The wonderful sights this place has to offer are worth mentioning. A splendid panoramic view of the entire coast line, the river Piedras, the Flecha de Nueva Umbria, the La Antilla beach... transforms this spot into a fabulous natural viewpoint.