Explora la cultura de Alicante: Tradición viva
Sumérgete en la rica historia y cultura de Alicante a través de sus museos y monumentos.
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Santa Barbara Castle
Alicante, the bright jewel of the Costa Blanca, is a city that lives facing the Mediterranean. Dominated by the imposing silhouette of the Santa Bárbara Castle on Mount Benacantil, it offers a perfect mix of vibrant urban life, golden beaches like El Postiguet, a charming old town and exquisite cuisine focused on rice and seafood.
Culture & Heritage
Discover the rich history, art and traditions of Alicante
An interesting and growing cultural scene, with high-quality museums, although it is not the main attraction of the city.
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Museums & Galleries
Santa Barbara Castle
One of the largest medieval fortresses in Spain, located on the top of Mount Benacantil. It offers the best views of the city and the bay.
Santa Cruz neighborhood (El Barrio)
The old town of Alicante. A charming labyrinth of narrow streets, white houses decorated with colorful flowers and small squares. It is the heart of nightlife.
Provincial Archaeological Museum (MARQ)
An innovative archaeological museum, awarded European Museum of the Year in 2004, which shows the history of the province in an interactive and educational way.
Basilica of Saint Mary
The oldest religious temple in the city, built in Valencian Gothic style on the remains of an ancient mosque. Its baroque façade stands out.
Festivals & Events
Bonfires of Saint John
June 20-24The official festival of the city. Artistic monuments made of papier-mâché, mascletás, parades and the magical night of the 'Cremà'.
Carnival
FebruaryIt is celebrated with a colorful parade through the city center, especially on 'Sábado Ramblero', where thousands of costumed people fill the Rambla de Méndez Núñez.
Pilgrimage of the Holy Face
Second Thursday after EasterKnown as 'The Pilgrim', it is a massive pilgrimage to the monastery that keeps the relic of the Holy Face.
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History
Origins
The origins date back to Iberian settlements. The enclave was named 'Akra Leuké' (White Promontory) by the Greeks. Later, the Romans established the city of 'Lucentum', whose archaeological remains can be visited. With the arrival of the Muslims, the city was renamed 'Al-Laqant', the origin of its current name.
Development
In 1246 it was conquered by the infante Alfonso of Castile and later incorporated into the Kingdom of Valencia. Thanks to its strategic port, it became an important commercial center during the Middle Ages and Modern Age. The city was walled to defend itself from pirate attacks, and experienced great economic development.
Modern era
Alicante played a relevant role in the Spanish Civil War, being one of the last cities to fall. The real boom came in the second half of the 20th century with the development of tourism, which transformed the city and consolidated it as one of the most important destinations in Spain, a process that continues today with its commitment to technology and quality of life.
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Culture
An interesting and growing cultural scene, with high-quality museums, although it is not the main attraction of the city.
Heritage
With a rich history as a strategic enclave from the Roman and Muslim era to the Civil War, dominated by its castle.
Architecture
Dominated by the imposing Castle of Santa Bárbara. The old town is charming, although the rest of the city is a mix of modernist buildings and more functional constructions from the tourism era.
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Discover the Cape Coves
For a calmer beach day and crystal clear waters, explore the rocky coves of Cabo de las Huertas. They are local favorites.
The 'Mushroom Street'
Look for Calle San Francisco, a colorful pedestrian street decorated with giant mushrooms. It's a fun place to walk around and take photos, especially with kids.
Lunch Schedules
Alicante people eat late. Lunch is usually between 2:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m., and dinner no earlier than 9:00 p.m.
The Nap is Real
Many small shops and local businesses close after lunch, approximately from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., especially outside the tourist center.
Tap Water is Drinkable
Tap water is safe for consumption, although due to its high lime content, many locals prefer to drink bottled water for its flavor.
Pharmacies
They are identified with a green cross. They offer professional advice for minor ailments and there are pharmacies on duty open 24 hours a day.
Keep an eye on your belongings
Alicante is very safe, but in busy areas such as the beach, the market or during parties, keep an eye on your bag and wallet to avoid theft.
Beware of the Sun
The sun can be very strong, even outside of summer. Always wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Tickets and monuments in Alicante
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