So, there’s this cool spot in Mazarrón, Spain, called the Batería de Castillitos. We visited this when we lived down in Murcia.
Picture this: a military fort perched high up with killer views of the sea. Built in the late 1920s to early ’30s, it was part of a big plan to keep the port city of Cartagena safe. They equipped it with these huge guns ( two 88 tons, Vickers guns, model 1926, which were manufactured in Sheffield) that could shoot really far, like 35km away. But guess what? They only actually used them once during the Spanish Civil War.
In the 1920s, the strategic significance of Cabo Tiñoso for protecting the western routes leading to the port of Cartagena was recognized. Under the guidance of General Primo de Rivera, the development of four defensive forts started in 1926, with the installation of large artillery taking place from 1932 to 1936.
Visiting the Batería de Castillitos
Fast forward to today, and it’s turned into this must-see place for tourists. It sits right on the edge of Cape Tiñoso, and let me tell you, the views are something else. Those big old guns are still there, kind of a reminder of what it was all about. I’ve heard people asking if these guns were used in the movie Guns of Navarone, but let me reassure you they were not.
If you’re thinking of visiting, here’s what you can do:
- Check out the guns and be amazed by how big and cleverly designed they are.
- Soak in the views. Seriously, bring your camera.
- There are some signs and maybe tours to fill you in on the history. Though, heads up, it might all be in Spanish.
- Perfect spot for a picnic, just clean up after yourself.
Hints And Tips
A few tips before you go:
- It’s a bit out of the way, so you’ll need a car.
- Wear comfy shoes because you’ll be walking on some uneven ground.
- Sunscreen, water, hat – don’t forget those, especially if it’s hot.
- Watch your step, especially if you’ve got kids with you.
The place has got quite the backstory, being part of a defense strategy back in the day. They had these two massive guns that were pretty advanced for their time. Imagine firing a one-ton shell over 35 miles! And they did fire them once during a bit of a scuffle in the Civil War.
The whole setup looks like something out of a fairy tale or a Disney movie, with ornate designs and strategic spots that blend right into the landscape. Now, it’s all spruced up for visitors. You can wander around, check out the bunkers and towers, and just enjoy the incredible scenery.
Declared a heritage site in ’97 and fixed up in 2009, the Batería de Castillitos is open for everyone to explore. And the area around it, with its natural beauty and marine reserve, is just icing on the cake.
The wonderful and historic Batería de Castillitos is a must location to visit if you’re ever down near Mazarrón. Sometimes referred to as the gun battery at Mazarrón, it’s a short drive up into the hills. The Castillitos Artillery battery is located in Cabo Tiñoso, about 20 minutes from Puerto de Mazarrón.
How To Get To The Guns of Castillitos
Getting there is pretty straightforward. Head towards Campillo de Adentro, right by the Azohía. Stick to the main road as you go through the village. You’ll cross a tiny bridge over a dry riverbed, then it’s a 15-minute drive up the mountain. The road can get a bit tight, and you’re likely to share it with other cars, bikes, and folks on foot, so keep your eyes peeled. The journey up offers some stunning scenery, so it’s worth taking it slow to enjoy. Once you’re almost there, you’ll find a little parking area about 100 meters away from the battery.
So, when are you going to visit the impressive Batería de Castillitos?
