The Watchtower of Torre Tavira

Cadiz is a bustling city in Southwestern Spain and is home to the magnificent Torre Tavira watchtower. It is one of the 134 watchtowers that are dotted across the city and is the tallest point in the old part of town. With a rather modest height of around 45m above sea level, the Torre Tavira offers panoramic views of the city and bay and includes two grand exhibition halls.

Torre Tavira was built in the 18th century and was named after its first watchmen lieutenant Antonio Tavira. This stunning watchtower is also home to the symbolic Camera Obscura which is the city’s main tourist attraction. It was made in 1994 and is a large projector that shows large moving pictures on a white circular screen, scenes that actually took place in real-time. An expert gives a commentary of what is taking place during the 15-minute long film in English, German, Spanish, and French.

At the bottom of the tower, there is a gift shop filled with touristy trinkets and memorabilia. They also sell stunning posters and calendars of spectacular views from the top of the watchtower.

Once you have experienced the Camera Obscura, stroll through the two exhibition halls and delve into the development of the city of Cadiz since the 18th century. Take time to read the historical information about the watchtower over the years and see the original spyglass used by the watchmen all those years ago.

Make sure to climb the tower to the top where you will enter onto a terrace where you will see the panoramic views of the city and the bay area. The Torre Tavira is definitely more impressive as seen from the top of the watchtower rather than from the street.