Places of interest in Alicante
Alicante, located in the center of the popular Costa Blanca, counts amongst the most important holiday destinations in Spain amongst tourists from all over Europe. Part of the interest in the tourist industry lies in the beautiful sandy beaches, the tranquil waters of the Mediterranean, the many golf courses in the province and the wonderful nature inland. The city itself sits at the the foot of the Santa Barbara fortress, a remainder of the many different civilisations who have settled in Alicante during centuries.
At the foot of the castle we find the historical quarter, which offers a lot of interesting monuments with an important architectural and religeous legacy. Amongst these places the old city center is worth mentioning. In the local tourist office you can obtain information about Alicante to find your way in this traditional area for the people from Alicante and tourists who visit the province.
A rocky promontory, called Benacantil mountain, is crowned by the Santa Barbara castle. This fortress of Arab origin, bears the marks of all the different civilizations that have settled in the city over the years. You have an impressive view of the whole city from the old walls of the castle and can see the the beautiful countryside of the city and he coastline of the Costa Blanca.
The old walled city of Alicante was built at the foot of the Santa Barbara castle, although an important part of the fortress only dates back to the sixteenth century. In this network of narrow streets and small alleys one of the most important buildings is the Santa María church built in gothic style in the sixteenth century on top of an old Arab mosque. The Casa de la Asegurada Museum, whcih was constructed in the seventeenth century is just across from the Santa Maria church. The museum has an important collection of contemporary art.
Without a doubt, the coastline, the sandy beaches and the Mediterrenean Sea are the favourite recreational spot for the people of Alicante and tourists who generally visit the beaches if they have ordered Alicante. Located across from the harbour we find the Explanada de España promenade. This is a lively boulevard dotted with bars, cafés, restaurants and terraces where you can sit ourside even in the winter months. Along the port's breakwater extends a modern leisure with many restaurants and bars. El Postiguet is the most wellknown urban beach of Alicante and a privileged spot for enjoying the sea and the sun whilst having a drink or a snack.
