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In Elche, Spain there is the notorious Calahorra Tower that has long been believed to be haunted by mysterious ghosts. Under the tower there is a hidden passageway were the people that have lived in the tower throughout times have been certain to have been haunted.

From its strategic position on the banks of the Vinalopó River to its remarkable architectural features, the Calahorra Tower has witnessed centuries of triumphs, struggles, and cultural transformations. From the ancient Iberians to the Roman Empire and the Moorish rule, each chapter of history has left its mark on this remarkable structure.

Read more: Check out all of our ghost stories from Spain

The first sign of the tower appeared as far back as the 12th century.Its strategic location made it a vital stronghold, guarding the city of Elche against potential invasions. The tower’s construction reflects the military architecture of the period, with its solid stone walls and defensive battlements. As you approach the tower, you can’t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the centuries of history it has witnessed.

**Torre de le Calahorra:** The Tower of La Calahorra rises up at the south of the Roman bridge, the far end from the city centre. It is a fortified gate originally built by the Moors. In the 18th century it was used as a prison and in the 19th century it was a girls school. It currently houses the Museo Vivo de Al-Andaluz.

But the historical significance of Calahorra Tower extends far beyond its military and religious roles. Over the centuries, it has served as a witness to Elche’s cultural transformations. The tower stands as a testament to the blending of different cultures, from the Roman Empire to the Moorish rule and the subsequent Christian reconquest. Each of these periods has left its mark on the architecture and cultural fabric of Elche, and the Calahorra Tower stands as a tangible reminder of this rich tapestry of history.

One of the most striking features of the Calahorra Tower is its rooftop terrace. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of Elche and the surrounding countryside. It’s easy to imagine the soldiers who once stood guard on these battlements, scanning the horizon for any signs of danger. As you take in the breathtaking views, you can’t help but feel a connection to the past and the people who once called this tower home.

The Tower as a Mysterious Masonic Lodge

One of the strange uses the place has had except from prison, barracks and confinement during the plague is as the headquarter of a Masonic Lodge. The Masonic lodge of the Order of the Grand Orient of Spain is decorated with Egyptian motifs in the tower. It showed life and death as well as for ceremonies and different rituals.

Legends and Mysteries Surrounding Calahorra Tower

No historical landmark would be complete without its fair share of legends and mysteries, and the Calahorra Tower is no exception. Over the centuries, numerous stories have been passed down, adding to the allure and intrigue of this remarkable structure.

One of the most enduring legends surrounding the Calahorra Tower is that it is haunted. According to local folklore, the spirits of past inhabitants still wander its halls, unable to find peace. There is for example a passageway from the dungeons that leads out to the sea and many of those who have stayed there claim to have experienced something paranormal there. The last person who lived in the tower also claimed to have encountered a headless ghost.

Visitors have reported hearing strange noises, feeling cold spots, and even witnessing ghostly apparitions. There are especially talks about hearing footsteps and the sound of children on the second floor.