Castillo de la Concepción

Castillo de la Concepción stands atop the highest hill in Cartagena's city center, offering commanding views across the Mediterranean and the historic port below. Built in the 13th century under Alfonso X the Wise on a site sacred and strategically valuable since ancient times, the fortress reuses stones from earlier Roman temples and Islamic structures that once occupied the same prominent position. Popularly known as the Castle of the Ducks for the peacocks adorning its gardens, it now houses the Centro de Interpretación de la Historia de Cartagena, which presents the city's complex history through audio presentations and documentary films available in multiple languages. An elevator facilitates visitor access to the fortress's elevated position, making its historical narratives and panoramic Mediterranean vistas accessible to all.