During the constant upheaval of the Middle Ages, Alcaine was converted into a strong fortress with the construction of 11 towers. Although their construction is attributed to the Muslims - who were in that area around the sixteenth century - the towers ended up in the hands of the Christians during the Reconquest. The names of both the village, Alcaine, and some of the geographic features (e.g. the Benicozar hill) are also of Arabic origin.
Nowadays the towers are damaged and two of them have been converted into pigeon houses. The only remains of the Muslim fortress are parts of its towers and floor. Yet, the route clearly shows the key defense role of the buildings and offers spectacular views over the surrounding area. The path goes from the church square to the old washhouses. At the mid point of the route you will find an information board regarding the defensive fortress and the orography of the place. A short path splits off from the main trail, leading to the "cueva de los Esquiladores" (the cave of the shearers), used to store goods during wartime and for stockbreeding activities |
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