Experience the best views of the historic city of Cádiz from the dizzying heights of this tower and use its intriguing projection machine.
The Torre Tavira is the highest point in the Old Town area. Dating back to the 1700s, the watchtower has become an iconic part of the city, offering panoramic views that stretch as far as the sea. Spot your favorite landmarks scattered among the white rooftops of the city.
Climb the stairs to reach the viewing platform at the top of the tower. Stroll around the scenic terrace, where you can admire the sights of the city with the naked eye. Enjoy the cool breeze in this serene and picturesque setting atop the tower, which is one of 129 watchtowers in Cádiz. The terrace also contains an optical instrument that works like a periscope, showing you a projected panorama of the city.
Just below the observation terrace, view the city through the camera obscura, which is an innovative type of telescope that projects an image onto a horizontal white screen. It shows objects as far as the horizon and incorporates the sea and the historic buildings of Cádiz. Move the screen up and down to view different parts of the landscape. A tour guide will perform a presentation with the instrument for about 15 to 20 minutes.
For a more comprehensive understanding of the camera obscura, read the panels in the First Exhibition Hall, above the reception area. The room contains a screen showing documentaries about the city and the tower.
Make your way to the Second Hall for the exhibits chronicling the 18th and 19th centuries of Cádiz. Read the plaques to learn about the harbor and trade routes.
Note that the tower opens daily from morning until early evening, staying open a little later in summer. There is an admission fee, with discounts for students, seniors and families. Reservations can be made online via email. Camera obscura shows are performed in several languages every 30 minutes all day.
Torre Tavira is in the heart of the Old Town in northwestern Cádiz. Visit nearby sights, such as the Museo de las Cortes, the Catacombs of Beaterio and the Oratorio de la Santa Cueva.
