BERNIA CASTLE (Fort Bernia)
Is a fortress situated on the highest part (1128 m.) of the Sierra de Bernia,
on a level part of the southern peak.
It was built in the 17th century on the orders of King Felipe II to prevent possible attacks of the Moors. The point at which the castle was erected is a perfect vantage point from which could be observed the arrival of pirates who were a constant threat to the coastal towns.
The characteristics of the construction were planned by the Italian engineer Juan Bautista Antorelliwho was given the commission by the monarch. The materials for the building of the castle were brought by sea to Moraira in 1562 – those who were in charge of the cargo were kept in ignorance of its ultimate destination, and they carried a sealed letter with the order that it was not to be opened until the ship reached Moraira, because the king did not want anyone to know about his plan for the fort.
However, it did not last long, mainly because of the difficulties of transporting provisions, and he ordered it to be dismantled in 1612.
The only part that now remain are arches and crumbling walls, with some pits
and wells filled in with earth. Several years ago, a chapel was erected by the
‘Centro Excursionistas de Alicante’ and on the 28th May every year
– a mass is held in honour of the Patron Saint of Mountaineers, Saint
Bernard of Menton..
Translated from various Spanish sources by Joan Franklin