Torre Abacial

Torre Abacial is a medieval defensive tower built into the old town walls of Laguardia, in the wine region of Rioja Alavesa (Álava, Basque Country). It stands on Plazuela de Santa María, right at the entrance to the Church of Santa María de los Reyes, forming one of the town's most recognisable historic ensembles.

What is the history behind the tower?

The tower was built at the turn of the 12th and 13th centuries, in a transitional style between late Romanesque and early Gothic, as part of the fortifications guarding Laguardia's western flank — opposite the great castle that once protected the northern stretch of the walls. Built from square-cut ashlar stone on a square plan, it served for centuries as a purely military structure. Its name — "abacial," meaning "of an abbot" — comes from a carved image of Saint Benedict visible in the first-floor windows, a detail pointing to a historic link with a monastery or abbey, even though the tower's original purpose was defensive rather than religious. Over time its military role faded and it was absorbed into the adjoining church, taking on a new life as its bell tower.

What will you see inside and at the top?

The tower rises through four levels. The two lower ones are solid and largely closed off, typical of a structure built to resist attack. The two upper levels, by contrast, are pierced with openings on all four sides — a clear stylistic break from the base that reflects a later remodelling for use as a bell tower and lookout point. Inside, a stone spiral staircase climbs to the top level. From there, the view stretches across the vineyards of Rioja Alavesa, the Sierra de Cantabria mountain range, and the rooftops and walls of Laguardia itself — one of the best vantage points in the area.

How do you get there and visit the tower?

Torre Abacial sits inside the old town walls, right next to Laguardia's main church, so reaching it is simply a matter of walking through the historic centre — no extra transport needed. Climbing to the top requires prior arrangement with the local Tourism Office, which organises visits and grants access to the upper viewing terrace.

When is the best time to visit?

Because the main draw is the panoramic terrace, clear days give the best visibility toward the Sierra de Cantabria. Spring and autumn are particularly rewarding, when the surrounding vineyards look their best — in bloom in spring, and during the grape harvest in autumn — adding extra character to the view from the top. In summer, mornings or late afternoons are the most comfortable times to climb, avoiding the peak midday heat.

Frequently asked questions

Do you need to book to climb the tower? Yes, visits are arranged through Laguardia's Tourism Office, which sets the schedule and access to the upper terrace.

Why is it called the "Abbot's Tower"? The name comes from a carved image of Saint Benedict in the first-floor windows, suggesting a historic connection to an abbey or monastery.

Does the tower still function as a bell tower? Yes, it currently serves as the bell tower for the neighbouring Church of Santa María de los Reyes, although it was originally built as part of the town's defensive walls.

What can you see from the top? The terrace offers views over the vineyards of Rioja Alavesa, the Sierra de Cantabria mountain range, and Laguardia's historic centre and walls.