The Aljama Tower: The Grand Gateway to the Town of Alpuente

The Aljama Tower—or Alhama, from the Arabic “meeting place”—is the best-preserved tower in the complex, likely because it housed the main gate leading into the city. From its earliest days, it appears to have served administrative functions, eventually becoming one of the most iconic buildings in Alpuente. The upper floor housed the trading exchange (Lonja de contratación) beginning in the 15th century, and the building served as the seat of the Alpuente City Council until 2010.

Over the centuries, the tower has undergone numerous renovations and adaptations to meet the needs of each era. As a result, its structure reveals various construction techniques that visually chronicle its evolution.

In the 16th century, the ceilings were lowered and a wing was added to the tower, along with a magnificent hall that preserves exceptional polychrome plasterwork featuring the town’s old coat of arms, dating from the 18th century. Surprisingly, the original wooden mold used to create this plasterwork is still preserved, offering a unique testament to the artisanal process.

On the ground floor of the building is the Hall of the Cortes, where the Cortes of the Kingdom of Valencia were held on two occasions, making this space a key site in Valencian institutional history.

Through the Porche de San Antonio, visitors can access the Guard Room, the dungeon, and the old stables, completing a tour that offers insight into the town’s daily life and defensive systems during both medieval and modern times.