Cypress Tower

Torre El Ciprés is a coastal surveillance watchtower completed in 1565 and located at San Juan beach in Alicante, Spain, serving the defensive needs of the wealthy agricultural orchards of the region. The tower features a rectangular floor plan measuring 4.5 by 6 meters across four levels, constructed entirely of well-crafted ashlar stones with precise stonework. Originally part of the Torres de la Huerta defensive network comprising 43 watchtowers built against Berber pirate attacks, the tower was expanded in the 17th century with an attached house and chapel; today the adjacent house remains demolished, leaving only the tower and privately-owned chapel standing. Designated a Cultural Heritage Site, it represents an important example of medieval coastal defensive architecture.