| |
|
|
The region of Alicante is located on the eastern coast of Spain and is part of the Costa Blanca, wedged between Murcia in the south, and Valencia in the north.
The city of Alicante is on the coastline between Benidorm and Elche. Also included is Orihuela.
Alicante city has a population of over 300,000 and combines both classic and modern societies, living in harmony.
It offers business and pleasure, entertainment and education. its history reaches back to prehistoric times with remains being found here from the third century before Christ.
Today, Alicante is a first rate tourist centre thanks to its splendid beaches, excellent climate and well known facilities.
|
|
|
| |
|
|
Besides its golden beaches and impressive Paseo Maritimo, Alicante has a wealth of history to offer the visitor and has an impressive mountain-top castle.
The city also has a range of 18th century manor houses, all worthy of a visit. We personally found Alicante a city in two parts.
The seafront was quite attractive yet one street in and the city had a scruffy appearance. There wasn't really that much to see in the city. |
|
|
| |
|
|
 |
|
Among its churches is the Iglesia de Santa Maria, which is the oldest church in the city and was built between the 14th and 16th centuries. It was once the main mosque during Moorish times. Its front comprises of two solid looking towers and wonderful Baroque stonework.
The church houses several important works of art. The Cathedral de San Nicolas was built between 1616 and 1662 and stands over 45 metres tall.
The Communion Chapel inside is considered to be one of the most beautiful examples of Spanish Baroque. St Nicolas is the patron saint of the city so this Cathedral is one of the most important buildings in the city.
The Monastery de la Santa Faz is 5km from the city centre and is now used as a convent of the order of St Clare. Although being built in 1752, there are remains here dating from 1582 in the form of a defence tower. |
|
|
|
 |
|
Scattered around the city are numerous statues and columns dedicated to patrons of the city. Many of the roundabouts contain a monument of some description.
When it comes to museums, Alicante has its fair share. The archaeology museum, created in 1932 has an extensive collection of artifacts and is known to be one of the best in Spain.
The museum is now housed in a new building and incorporates the most modern of multimedia displays. |
| |
|
|
The Castillo de Santa Barbara is one of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe.
It occupies the entire summit and a large proportion of the slopes of the Benacantil mountain.
It commands a unique look-out over the coastline, the Bay of Alicante and the surrounding farmland.
Remains from the Bronze-age have been discovered on this site. The castle has three enclosures of differing dates, each with unique features.
The castle can be accessed by a road leading up the western slope of the mountain, winding its way through pine trees. |
|
 |
|
|
|
 |
|
You can also visit the castle by means of an elevator that ascends from the Paseo Maritimo. Entrance to the castle is free but there is a charge for using the elevator.
EU Senior citizens and disabled don't have to pay.
Alicante also has an array of palaces worth visiting, including the Gavina Palace which now houses the Provincial Gallery with fine paintings from the 19th century.
The main theatre dates from 1847 and is a fine example of classical construction. |
| |
|
|
The bullring is one of the oldest in Spain still in use. Built in 1849 it has since been restored and enlarged. The current design dates from 1888.
Alicante is a major education centre and has an impressive university, founded in 1979.
At present it has over 30,000 students on a campus covering over one million square metres.
The university has six higher schools, seven colleges and seven university institutes. It has branches in several provincial towns. |
|
 |
| |
Recreation is the key word in Alicante and to this end there are numerous parks, gardens and plazas in which to soak up the sun and the atmosphere. Most have impressive water features, monuments and statues.
When it comes to beaches, the Playa de San Juan is considered to be one of the finest in Spain. A broad beach, some 5km long that has all the facilities you would expect, from hotels, bars, restaurants and even an 18 hole golf course. There are three small coves, Palmera, Cantalares and Judios. They are difficult to access and therefore appropriate as nudist beaches.
The small, sandy Almadraba beach and the well hidden Albufereta beach are ideal for water sports in safe surroundings. Further south is the Playa del Coco, next to the regional railway station. This beach connects to Playa del Postiguet, located close to the city centre, with an attractive promenade, flanked by palm trees.
The last of the city's beaches is Saladar, broad, sandy and open. The pedestrian walkway here gives panoramic views of the bay of Alicante. |
| |
|
|
 |
|
Located 11 miles south of Alicante is a guitar-shaped island with a total area of 30 hectares.
The Island of Tabarca has a curious history and has a firm place in ancient Greek history.
It was once a refuge for Berber pirates and in 1760, King Carlos III ordered a fortress to be built here. It is possible to take a boat ride from Alicante to the island.
The old quarter of the city is a maze of small streets climbing the hill. Many of the streets are lined with curios balconies and multi-coloured buildings.
Higher up are white-washed houses that offer panoramic views of the city and the bay. |
| |
|
|
|
|
Alicante is a cultural centre and has a varied selection of events and fiestas.
At the end of June a traditional arts and crafts market is staged in Plaza de la Santisima Faz and nearby streets. The event has a medieval theme.
During July and August the new esplanade in front of the port comes alive for the summer festival with constant theatrical performances and concerts.
The fist ten days of December sees the International Puppet Festival that attracts people from all over the world - one of the finest events of its kind in the world. For more fiestas in Alicante.
We have investigated Alicante several times as part of our Costa Blanca tours and found Alicante to be a little overwhelming. It is a typical large city with the city life to go with it.
Its beaches are of a high standard and within the city there are ample, beautiful, quiet places to rest. The shopping is first class, as is the cuisine in the many bars and restaurants. |
| |
An excursion inland can be made to Busot to see the Cuevas del Canelobre. The caves are 24km from Alicante and house the highest vaults in the whole of Spain.
The interior reminds you of a cathedral interior with its coloured lights illuminating the rock and mineral formations. Busot also offers the visitor many hiking routes with unique views and a range of restaurants with local cuisine.
|
