Clavero Tower (Salamanca)
Clavero Tower is what remains of a splendid building dating back to the 15th century. It served as a defensive fortress and the stately home of the Order of the Alcántara. Clavero Tower is considered one of the great attractions of Salamanca due to its interesting, ancient and complex construction.
The architectural design presents a square-shaped plan almost 30 meters high. However, due to its construction, at a distance of 20 meters, the tower acquires an octagonal shape made of ashlar.
It is adorned on each side by semi-cylindrical drums topped by a military heraldry. In its upper part, one can see its eight sentry boxes, as well as a cornice of arches, heraldry and modillions. Although its origin is not specified, it is suspected that it dates back to 1470 or earlier.
A significant feature of the tower is its imposing presence; a spiral staircase connects its five stories. At the time of its construction, it was the tallest building in Salamanca.
As a curiosity, Clavero Tower also functioned as a temporary prison for those involved in the murder of Inés de Castro, the lover of the then-King of Portugal Pedro I, before they were taken to Lisbon to be executed.
Due to its magnificence, heritage and historical value, Clavero Tower was declared a National Monument in 1931. Currently, it serves as the headquarters of the Centre for Salamancan Studies.
The architectural design presents a square-shaped plan almost 30 meters high. However, due to its construction, at a distance of 20 meters, the tower acquires an octagonal shape made of ashlar.
It is adorned on each side by semi-cylindrical drums topped by a military heraldry. In its upper part, one can see its eight sentry boxes, as well as a cornice of arches, heraldry and modillions. Although its origin is not specified, it is suspected that it dates back to 1470 or earlier.
A significant feature of the tower is its imposing presence; a spiral staircase connects its five stories. At the time of its construction, it was the tallest building in Salamanca.
As a curiosity, Clavero Tower also functioned as a temporary prison for those involved in the murder of Inés de Castro, the lover of the then-King of Portugal Pedro I, before they were taken to Lisbon to be executed.
Due to its magnificence, heritage and historical value, Clavero Tower was declared a National Monument in 1931. Currently, it serves as the headquarters of the Centre for Salamancan Studies.
Location
What to see in Salamanca
