In summary: The Ambolo Tower, also known as the Discoverer’s Tower or the Fonda Tower, is a 16th-century watchtower in Jávea (Alicante), situated atop the headland overlooking Cala Ambolo, on the road to Cabo de la Nao. It formed part of the Kingdom of Valencia’s coastal defence system against pirate attacks. It is situated within a private residential estate, so it is not open to visitors: it can be seen from the sea or from the Mirador del Castell de la Granadella viewpoint.
Anyone looking down on Cala Ambolo from above will see, perched on the cliff, a round stone tower that still seems to be keeping watch over the sea. This is the Torre de Ambolo, one of the watchtowers that have dotted the coast of Jávea since the 16th century. Here’s its history, what it’s like and where to see it, as it isn’t possible to visit the inside.
Index
History of the Ambolo Tower
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Tower profile
Ambolo Tower
- Other names
- Tower of the Discoverer, Fonda Tower
- Location
- Headland overlooking Cala Ambolo, Jávea
- Period
- First recorded in the 16th century
- Function
- Coastal defence watchtower
- Form
- Circular, approximately 4.6 metres in diameter
- Visit
- Not open to the public; it is located in a private housing estate
- Where to watch it
- From the sea or the Castell de la Granadella viewpoint
During the 16th century, the Valencian coast was subjected to constant attacks by Barbary pirates. To keep watch over it, a network of towers was erected, each within sight of the others, from which signals were sent using fire or smoke to warn of the arrival of enemy ships. The Ambolo Tower formed part of this defence system of the Kingdom of Valencia.
It is mentioned as early as the mid-16th century in documents such as the ordinances of the Resguardo de la Costa of 1553, a report on coastal defences from 1561 by the engineer Giovanni Battista Antonelli, and another report from 1585. Its origins are therefore thought to date back to the 16th century, although the exact date of construction is unknown.
What is the tower like?
It is a sturdy, cylindrical tower, approximately 4.6 metres in diameter, built on a square platform. It has two storeys and two sentry boxes, and is built of local stone masonry bonded with lime mortar. During a recent restoration, the external entrance was rebuilt with a semicircular arch.
Where to see the Ambolo Tower
The tower is situated at the top of the headland, within a private housing estate, so You cannot go inside or get close to it on foot. The two best ways to watch it are:
- From the sea: by kayak, stand-up paddleboard or boat, skirting the cliffs of Cala Ambolo.
- From the Castell de la Granadella viewpoint: a viewpoint high up on the southern coast of Jávea, overlooking the coast and the tower.
At its feet lies the Ambolo Cove, one of the most spectacular coves in Jávea, with its islet and sheer cliffs.
Trips and activities near the Ambolo Tower
These kayaking trips take you along the coast of Jávea – the best way to see the tower and the coves from the water: And if you’d like to see all the options, here they are: activities in Jávea.
Tips for your visit
- Please do not try to climb the tower: it is on private property.
- To see it up close, it’s best to do so from the sea, by kayak or boat.
- Combine this visit with a trip to the Castell de la Granadella viewpoint.
- Cala Ambolo is closed due to the risk of rockfalls: please do not attempt to go down there.
- Take your binoculars with you if you’re going to the viewpoint.
- Please respect the environment: this is a very fragile coastline.
More places to visit in Jávea
Access to Ambolo Cove- Where to park in Playa Granadella
- Parking Portitxol Cove
- Where is the famous Blue Door of Jávea?
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Ambolo Tower?
In Jávea (Alicante), at the top of the headland overlooking Cala Ambolo, near the Cabo de la Nao road.
Can you visit the Ambolo Tower?
No. It is situated within a private housing estate and is not open to visitors. It can be seen from the sea or from the Mirador del Castell de la Granadella viewpoint.
When was the Ambolo Tower built?
Dating from the 16th century. It is mentioned in documents from 1553, 1561 and 1585, although the exact date of construction is unknown.
What was it used for?
It was a watchtower forming part of the Kingdom of Valencia’s coastal defence system, used to warn of the arrival of pirate ships.
What other names does it have?
It is also known as the Discoverer’s Tower or the Fonda Tower.
