Elche is a city located in the province of Alicante, in the Valencian Community, Spain.With a population of approximately 243,128 inhabitants in 2024, it is the second most populated city in the province after Alicante.It stands out for its great cultural and natural heritage, especially for the Palm Grove of Elche, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, which is the largest palm grove in Europe and an emblematic symbol of the city.Geographically, Elche is located on a plain near the Mediterranean Sea, which gives it a mild and pleasant Mediterranean climate for most of the year.The city combines tradition and modernity, with an economy based on the footwear industry, agriculture, and services.In addition, Elche is known for its rich history, its traditional festivities such as the Feast of the Lady of Elche and the Misteri d'Elx, a religious theatrical performance declared Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.Its strategic location and demographic growth make it an important urban and cultural center in the Spanish southeast.