Alicante Spain
Spain - Barcelona - Seville - Valencia - Madrid
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. Its original name “Lucentum” means “City of Light”.
Alicante city has a population of over 300,000 and combines both classic and modern societies, living in harmony. It is one of the oldest cities and 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.
Alicante currently ranks as the eight largest metropolitan area of Spain and is also one of the fastest growing cities of Spain. Its economy is largely based on Tourism and exports of goods like olive oil, wine, fruit, clothing, nougat and footwear.
There are many places worth visiting in Alicante.
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. There is an array of palaces in Alicante worth a visit.
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. The church houses several important works of art. Also The Cathedral de San Nicolas was built between 1616 and 1662 and stands over 45 metres tall. Another Monastery of de la Santa Faz is 5km from the city centre and is now used as a convent of the order of St Clare.
The Playa de San Juan is one of the finest beaches 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.
Alicante offers business and pleasure, entertainment and education. Recreation is the key word in Alicante and to this end there are museums, numerous parks, gardens and plazas in which to soak up the sun and the atmosphere. Most have impressive water features, monuments and statues. All in all Alicante is a great place to spend fun filled holiday.
For further information click onto the following links:
Castillo de Santa Barbara
Tourist centre
City of Light
Medieval fortresses
Churches
Beaches
Museums
Numerous parks
Gardens
Plazas
