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I have captured this series of photographs of the Sant Joan castle, known as La Suda, both from inside the fortress, with views of the city of Tortosa, and from the streets of this town bathed by the Ebro.
In fact, from its privileged and strategic elevated position, this castle has dominated the river passage for centuries. It is one of the main historical monuments of Tortosa, along with the cathedral and the Royal Colleges, converted into “a key witness to the city’s Andalusian past.” In addition, it preserves the only open-air Islamic necropolis in Catalonia.
The Suda Castle was built in the 10th century under the caliphate of Abd al-Rahman III, on top of an ancient Roman acropolis. It is a marvel of engineering, since a huge well dug within the enclosure went down to find the Ebro River to supply the fortress with water.
Over time, this fortress has changed hands and has had different uses. After the conquest of Tortosa by Ramón Berenguer IV in 1148, the castle became a prison. Later, it was owned by the Montcada and the Templars, in addition to being the favorite residence of King Jaime I of Aragon.
In addition to being the royal palace, the Suda fortress has also been the seat of the court of justice. Currently, it houses a tourist hostel.
