Church with the converted defensive belfry in Lasarte, Spain

In the heart of Lasarte, a small town in the province of Vitoria (Álava, Spain), the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción boasts a rich history that mirrors the town's evolution. Originally, in the 13th century, the church served as a fortress under King Sancho the Brave, who donated it to Vitoria in 1286. However, over time, the church was transformed from a defensive structure to a religious institution. The belfry, added during the 16th or 17th century, is a striking example of this transformation. This tower, attached to the church, initially served as a defensive tower, with its spiral staircase and small openings used for defense. Over time, it was converted into a bell tower, its current role. The belfry is adorned with eight pointed openings, with traces of defensive features in the corners.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons