The Torre de la Vela in the Alhambra is a 30-meter high tower situated at the top of the complex, overlooking the city of Granada. It is a rectangular tower with four levels and a terrace at the top. The tower is built of brick and rubble masonry with stone and plaster details. The tower has two main entrances, one facing the palace and the other facing the city.
The first level of the tower has a square plan with a vaulted ceiling and two small rooms on each side. The second level is circular with a wider diameter than the first level. It has two windows on each side and a balcony at the top of the tower that overlooks the city. The third level is also circular and has a narrower diameter than the second level. It has four windows on each side and a balcony with a parapet.
The fourth level of the tower is a rectangular room that serves as a watchtower. It has two large windows on each side and a central pillar that supports the wooden roof. The terrace at the top of the tower is accessed through a wooden staircase and has a battlement with merlons and crenels, which served as a defensive feature.
The architecture of the Torre de la Vela reflects the military and defensive character of the Alhambra complex, and it played a crucial role in the defense of Granada during the 15th century.
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