Gold Tower in Seville

Torre del Oro - "Mayak" GOLDEN WAY Torre del Oro in Spanish literally means "Golden Tower". Origin of the name and still generates much controversy. On the one hand it may mean that the tower covered with gold plates, which reflect the sun's rays. On the other hand, it is believed that the tower was a symbol of the port, which receives all the gold coming into this part of Europe from America. Torre del Oro Torre del Oro is located in the Spanish port of Seville. In essence, it is a military tower built during the Berber Almohad dynasty. The main task of the tower was protected from penetration into the city by the Guadalquivir River, as well as protection from the advancing enemy on the bank of this river. Such towers, access to the river in the southern part of town, there were three. Torre del Oro was the main observation post, to which, together with the other two towers was an important task to protect the city against the penetration of the natural water barrier. By the Golden Tower was mounted a powerful chain that stretched across the river and was assigned to another tower on the opposite shore. Unfortunately, the second tower did not survive. Tourists and Pleasure boats enjoying the view of the "golden tower" Torre del Oro was built at the end of the reign of King Taifa. Dvenadtsatigrannaya tower was built of stone blocks and the dome height of three storeys, which is also divided into 12 facets. The upper part of the battle tower is located on the terrace, before it can be reached by stairs leading from the base of the tower. In the XVI century Torre del Oro was in ruins and in need of substantial rehabilitation. Building of the tower is also badly damaged during the earthquake of 1755 in Lisbon. In 1760 was completed, the highest part of the tower. The upper portion of the tower shortly after recovery, an observation post was again in danger. Local authorities decided to demolish the tower to make way for construction of another object. Thanks to the residents of Sevilla Torre del Oro was saved. Once again citizens have saved the tower from demolition in 1868 when it was put up for sale as worthless debris. Today the tower is a local museum of the Navy. Here you can see a variety of drawings, symbols, models, tools and historical documents.