Torre del Criado del Doctor Ortiz, Granada

Public Domain / Jebulon

The Torre del Criado del Doctor Ortiz is one of the lesser-known defensive towers of the Alcazaba in the Alhambra Complex, yet it forms an important link in the fortress's inner curtain wall. Located between the Torre del Homenaje and the Torre de Alquiza, it mirrors the structure of its neighbour: solid, rectangular, and built without interior chambers. It served as a simple but vital lookout over the Calle del Foso, the moat-street that channels movement from the Puerta de las Armas toward the Puerta de la Tahona. Although modest in size, it remains one of the things to do in Granada for visitors exploring the Alcazaba's layered defensive system.

Because of its position on the inner defensive ring, the tower helped monitor access into the complex and guard the strategic approach to the Nasrid Palaces. Its form and purpose make it a great place to visit on a walking tour of Granada focused on the military architecture of the Alhambra.

History and Significance of Torre del Criado del Doctor Ortiz

This small tower forms part of the Alcazaba's inner curtain wall, north of the Plaza de las Armas. Built as a solid rectangular projection with no interior rooms, it exemplifies the purely functional defensive design typical of secondary towers in the Alcazaba.

Its name, Torre del Criado del Doctor Ortiz, comes from a much later historical period, when inhabitants and custodians of the Alhambra were often associated with specific towers. The tower's principal purpose, however, remained unchanged: observation and defence. It provided visual control over the Calle del Foso, the access route that connected the Puerta de las Armas with the Puerta de la Tahona, where travellers and guards moved toward the palatial precincts. This spot is one of the best places to see in the Alhambra for appreciating how carefully the fortress monitored movement within its walls.

Things to See and Do in Torre del Criado del Doctor Ortiz

Visitors can admire the tower's simple but effective rectangular shape as it projects outward from the wall. Though not accessible inside, its exterior is easily viewed from the Plaza de las Armas and along the route that connects the Torre del Homenaje with the Torre de Alquiza.

From nearby walkways, you can observe how the tower forms part of the tight network of defensive elements around the inner moat. Its location allows you to compare architectural features with neighbouring towers, including the solid Torre de Alquiza and the much taller Torre del Homenaje.

How to Get to Torre del Criado del Doctor Ortiz

Visitors arriving by air typically land at Granada Airport. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Granada on Booking.com.

Granada's train station provides convenient rail links with major cities before transferring to the Alhambra. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Travelling by car is straightforward, with parking available near the main Alhambra entrance before walking into the Alcazaba. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

The tower stands on the inner curtain wall of the Alcazaba, north of the Plaza de las Armas.

Practical Tips on Visiting Torre del Criado del Doctor Ortiz

• Suggested tips: Walk the length of the inner curtain wall to compare its smaller towers and understand the defensive logic of the Alcazaba.
• Best time to visit: Mid-morning, when sunlight illuminates the curtain walls and moat route.
• Entrance fee: The Torre del Criado del Doctor Ortiz is part of the Alhambra Complex and access it you need to purchase Alhambra Tickets or a Alhambra Guided Tour.
• Opening hours: For opening times of the Torre del Criado del Doctor Ortiz see Alhambra Opening Times.
• Official website:
• How long to spend: Around 5 minutes to view the tower and its position along the wall.
• Accessibility: Uneven pathways and stairways in the Alcazaba may challenge visitors with mobility limitations.
• Facilities: Restrooms and cafés are available elsewhere in the Alhambra.
• Photography tip: Frame the tower against the linear profile of the curtain wall for a sense of depth and defensive structure.
• Guided tours: Many Alcazaba tours pass near the tower, offering explanations of its defensive role.
• Nearby food options: Cafés inside the complex and restaurants in central Granada.

Where to Stay close to Torre del Criado del Doctor Ortiz

For an atmospheric stay within the Alhambra itself, consider the Parador de Granada. Close by, Hotel América offers historic charm and easy access to the Alcazaba. For a modern hotel near the main entrance, Eurostars Washington Irving is an excellent choice.

Is Torre del Criado del Doctor Ortiz Worth Visiting?

Yes, especially for travellers interested in the defensive history of the Alcazaba. While modest, the tower plays a key role in explaining how the inner moat and approach routes were supervised. It adds depth to an exploration of the Alhambra's military structures.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (9)

Torre del Criado del Doctor Ortiz sits within the Alhambra complex in Granada and is a small, somewhat secluded defensive tower that visitors note for its quiet, understated charm; some say it can be seen from the Paseo de las Torres surrounded by vegetation while others describe it as a solid, roomless tower in the Alcazaba offering views toward the Nasrid Palaces and, for certain towers in the area, access to the top, though this specific tower is reported as not open to the public.

WonderChan

8 months ago

"While exploring the Alhambra with my family, the Torre del Criado del Doctor Ortiz offered a peaceful escape within the grand complex. Though smallerand less visited, this tower holds a quiet charm, evoking the daily life of those who once lived within these walls. Its subtle details and secluded location make it a perfect stop for those seeking a deeper, more personal co ection to the Alhambra's layered history. A hidden gem worth discovering. During our family visit to the Alhambra, the Torre del Criado del Doctor Ortiz offered us a peaceful refuge within the majestic complex. Although smaller and less visited, this tower possesses a serene charm that evokes the daily life of those who once inhabited these walls. Its subtle details and secluded location make it a perfect stop for those seeking a deeper, more personal co ection to the Alhambra's history. A hidden gem worth discovering...."

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Observador silencioso

2 months ago

"A little-known and small tower. Its curious name comes from a former owner of the area during the Christian era, Dr. Ortiz, whose servant would haveoccupied or guarded the tower. It was originally part of the Alhambra's defensive system and served as an observation point over the Darro Valley. It is not accessible to the public, but can be seen from the Paseo de las Torres, surrounded by vegetation. Interestingly, this tower is mentioned in old documents as one of the boundaries of the palace complex, demonstrating its importance in the external protection of the fortress...."

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David Gutiérrez Sacristán SPAIN

5 years ago

"It is a small defensive tower located in the Alcazaba, between the Torre del Homenaje and the Torre de Alquiza. It has the same characteristics asthe nearby Torre de Alquiza, since it is solid and without interior rooms...."

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FAQs for Visiting Torre del Criado del Doctor Ortiz

Nearby Attractions to Torre del Criado del Doctor Ortiz

• Torre del Homenaje: One of the Alcazaba's major defensive towers.
• Torre de Alquiza: A neighbouring solid tower with excellent views.
• Plaza de las Armas: The Alcazaba's central military square.
• Puerta de las Armas: The historical main entrance to the fortress.
• Torre del Cubo: A prominent tower guarding the northern approach.

The Torre del Criado del Doctor Ortiz appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Granada!

Moira & Andy

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