Alhambra is.first. and foremost a fortification, defined by a defensive wall circuit mediated by towers and gates atop a natural acropolis surrounded by rocky terrain and the River Darro guarding the northern side. Alcazaba, the citadel on the westernmost tip of the Alhambra complex, enclosed within an additional triangular wall circuit, certainly exemplifies the military aspects of the complex. It seNed as an armory and was heavily fortified with a watchtower.