Also known as: Alacant
Alicante, a city on the Costa Blanca, is more than just sun and sand. It's a place where ancient history, impressive architecture, and vibrant culture converge under the Spanish sun. From the majestic fortresses towering high above the city to the charming streets full of stories and the bustling markets, Alicante invites discovery. It's a city that surprises with its depth and character, a destination that takes you on a journey through time.
High above the city: Fortresses and panoramic views
Every visitor's gaze is inevitably drawn to the Castle of Santa Bárbara, perched high above Alicante. This is one of Europe's largest medieval fortresses and an absolute eye-catcher. The rock formation beneath the castle is aptly named the 'Moorish head' due to its resemblance to a face. Once at the top, on the Baluard de Santa Anna, one of the castle's most strategic points, you can survey the entire coastline. Centuries ago, soldiers stood guard here, and the old cannons recall the defense and resilience of these walls, which witnessed everything from Roman times to Napoleonic wars.
Within the castle walls is the Museum of the City of Alicante (MUSA), a treasure trove of Alicante's past. From prehistoric finds to the Moorish and Castilian periods, the museum reveals the city's soul. An old well, essential for castle life, can also be admired here. After delving into history, Parc de l'Ereta offers a modern oasis. This park connects the old city with the castle via terraces that descend towards the city and the sea. With its water features and art installations, it's a place to enjoy the fresh air and views over Alicante Bay. For another spectacular panorama, there's Mirador Alicante, the perfect spot for views of the city, the port, and the Mediterranean Sea.
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Through the alleys of old Alicante
Walking through the old city, you'll encounter charming surprises, such as 'La casita de las macetas azules', the house with the blue flowerpots. Hundreds of bright blue pots full of flowers adorn its facade, a cheerful and photogenic spot that creates a fairytale atmosphere. Not far from here stands the Basilica of Santa María, Alicante's oldest church. Built on the foundations of a former mosque, this building showcases a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, later enriched with a Baroque facade. The details on the facade are rich, and inside, a serene tranquility reigns, surrounded by beautiful artworks.
Another cultural stop is the Gravina Museum of Fine Arts (MUBAG), housed in the Palacio Provincial. This museum honors the artists of Alicante, with a focus on paintings and sculptures from the 16th to the 20th century. The elegant architecture of the palace itself, particularly the grandiose staircase, is a sight to behold. In the heart of Alicante stands the imposing Co-cathedral of San Nicolás, also built on the site of a former mosque. This building is a mix of Renaissance and Baroque, with an impressive blue dome dominating the skyline. The grandeur within invites reflection.
Vibrant Alicante: From architecture to market life
The city also demonstrates its resilience and flourishing economy in its architecture. An example of this is Casa Carbonell, a modernist building that proudly graces the Explanada d'Espanya. With its elegant towers and opulent details, it tells the story of a textile magnate who, after a fire in his hometown, built a new life in Alicante. It is a symbol of ambition and early 20th-century prosperity.
The beating heart of daily life in Alicante is the Mercado Central. This impressive modernist building from the early 20th century is not only an architectural marvel but also a bustling place where locals have been buying their fresh produce for generations. The scents, colors, and sounds make it a feast for the senses. Don't forget to spot the bat on the clock tower, a symbol of the city.
This walk through Alicante offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's rich history and vibrant culture. From the high-perched fortresses with their expansive views to the hidden gems in the old city and the bustling market, Alicante has much to offer. This article is just a taste of the many discoveries you can make. The full walk through Alicante in the CityWalkGems app includes even more stops, riddles, and hidden details waiting to be discovered by you.
- 11 stops
- Start anywhere
- ~3,2 km route length
- ~750 m longest stretch
- about 1,5–2 h duration
- Free
