Lighthouse in the Bay of Cádiz in Andalusia by Silva Wischeropp

I discovered this maritime architectural motif in the late evening of 1 September 2025.
This urban shot was taken with a NIKON D800 (lens: NIKKOR 24.0–70.0 mm f/2.8).

A particular highlight of a visit to San Sebastián Castle is a stroll along the long promenade. At sunset, you’ll experience a fantastic natural spectacle here. The sun sinking into the sea leaves a lasting impression, and not just on romantics. The view of the city, which is shown in its best light from the fortress walls, is also spectacular.

The Castillo de San Sebastián in Cádiz was built right out into the sea. The castle was once part of the fortifications designed to protect the city from enemy attacks. Today, the castle in Caleta Bay is a popular attraction in Andalusia thanks to its fantastic views of the sea and the city.

Surrounded on all sides by the sea and connected to the city only by a long promenade, the Castillo de San Sebastián in Cádiz stands on a small rocky islet. Even from a distance, the relatively modern 41-metre-high lighthouse welcomes visitors to the city.

The rest of the castle complex is considerably older. The construction of the fortress, with its irregular layout, dates back to 1706. In 1985, the Castillo de San Sebastián in Cádiz was designated a Spanish cultural heritage site.

The Castillo is situated on historic ground. According to legend, the rocky islet was once the site of a royal temple.
In 1457, a chapel in honour of Saint Sebastian was consecrated on the islet. The chapel was built by the crew of a ship from Venice.
An old lighthouse served as the foundation stone for the chapel. In 1613, there were several lighthouses, one of which was converted into a watchtower. It thus no longer served as a navigational aid for shipping, but primarily for the defence of the city of Cádiz.