Islamic period

Most of the visible fortress originates from the Islamic period, especially between the 10th and 13th centuries, when the town was an important coastal settlement under the Emirate and later the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada. During this period, the defensive structures were adapted to the rocky hill, with walls and towers following the topography of the terrain. 

Christian Reconquest

In 1489, after Almuñécar surrendered to the Catholic Monarchs, the castle came under Christian control. In the 16th century, major fortifications were added, including a moat, drawbridge, and artillery bastions, adapting the fortress to contemporary military tactics. 

19th and 20th centuries

During the Peninsular War against Napoleon’s troops (early 19th century), the castle was occupied by the French and suffered damage. After the conflict, it lost its military use and was used as a municipal cemetery from 1851 to 1977. 

In 1931, it was declared a National Monument, and restoration works began in the 1980s, continuing to the present day. 

Architecture and Features

The Castillo de San Miguel has an irregular plan adapted to the rocky hill. The original complex is surrounded by walls with eleven towers from different construction periods and other defensive structures, including:

• Moat and access bridge

• Gunports and artillery bastions

• Remains of interior buildings

• Keep tower

• Arabic bath

• Coracha (defensive corridor) connecting with Peñón de San Cristóbal

Construction materials include rammed earth, masonry, and ashlar, reflecting various historical phases.