Hisn Yakka Archaeological Site

Castle Hill. Islamic settlement from the 12^th and 13^th centuries.

 

The Yecla Castle, belonging to Western Al-Andalus, was built during the Muslim domination, between the Caliphate or Taifa periods in the 10^th and 11^th centuries. Around then the town's urban center began to grow in population under the name of “YAKKA”, word which in time evolved to its current name: ”Yecla”.

 

The main role of this “hisn” or fortress was to ensure the defense of local citizens. Archaeological excavations have led to the discovery of ten typical Hispanic-Moorish houses and buildings, with a central patio and rooms around it. The streets seemed to be structured, with health infrastructures allowing for waste water evacuation and drinking water supply. The “maqbara” or Islamic cemetery sat outside the settlement.