Some TLC needed for ruined tower

REGIONAL government experts inspected the ruined Les Caletes tower in Benidorm to decide how to save it. 

Built in the 16th century at the Benidorm end of the Sierra Helada, it formed part of a chain built by Felipe II to defend the Spanish empire against its enemies and Barbary pirates.

It is the only remaining lookout tower inside the town boundaries and is a protected Asset of Cultural Interest (BIC) but “rather deteriorated” admitted Culture councillor Ana Pellicer.

The stone walls are crumbling and masonry is falling away in some places, affecting its structure and endangering visitors, she said.

It is now up to the Generalitat’s Heritage architect Santiago Varela to decide how to prevent further deterioration. The town hall now plans to fence the site off to prevent access to the tower.