The capital of the correspondent province in Spain, Alicante, has been evolved from a Phoenician colony, whose origin goes back to the pre-Christian period. Later, the town was owned by the Moors and became part of the kingdom Aragon. The town’s landmark, the Castillo Santa Barbara, is set on a rock and raises imposingly above the city. It is the biggest medieval fort in Europe and an important testimonial of Spanish history. The townscape of Alicante is dominated by lordly palaces and middle-class houses. In the sacral centre of the city you find the church St. Maria, built in the 15th century.

Things to do in Alicante
A real eye-catcher is the esplanade of Alicante, which consists of numerous marble chips and is bordered by palm trees. Especially during the evening the promenade is full of atmosphere and you can have a romantic walk there. Another hotspot for both locals and tourists is the Park El Palmeral where you can find rivers, lakes and playgrounds. The 5-kilometer-long Playa de San Juan is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. During the summer months it can become very busy here. The pirate’s island Tabarca with its ancient church and several watchtowers is also an exciting place to visit. The island is accessible by boat from Alicante harbour, so you can keep your feet dry. On the 24th June visitors of Alicante can enjoy stunning fireworks on the sea.

Tabarca
The idyllic island of Tabarca is located about 20 kilometers from the mainland of Alicante. It is the perfect destination for a day trip by boat. The ride from Alicante to the historic island takes about one hour. In the 18th century the Spanish king initiated the relocation of captured Genoese fishermen from the Tunesian town of Tabarca to the island. Hence the island has the reputation as a “pirate’s island”. Walking through the small village, you can pay a visit to the Museum or try one of the local specialties like “Caldero”, a famous fish soup.

Explanada
One of the most beautiful esplanades in Spain is situated in Alicante. The Explanada de España consists of 6.5 million marble stones coloured in red, blue and white. Palm trees are lining the promenade on both sides. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere or have a rest in one of the numerous restaurants and bars along the boulevard. At the end of the Explanada you find a monument of the artist Vicente Bañuls, built in the 18th century.

Elche
Elche is a Spanish town in the province of Valencia, approximately 20 kilometers south-west from Alicante. The town is famous for its beautiful palm gardens that were listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beside palm trees you can find well kept gardens with orange- and lemon trees in the 192,000 -inhabitant city. Another must-see are the Arabian baths below ground.

Harbour of Alicante
Everyone looking for vibrant nightlife in Alicante, will find the right place at the harbour. Numerous bars, clubs and pubs offer a variety of entertainment. By day you can gaze at luxurious motor yachts and boats or visit the old custom house. Furthermore, the boats to the island of Tabarca depart at Alicante harbour.

El Palmeral
As indicated by the name, El Palmeral is a huge palm garden in the Valencian town Elche. It houses more than 11,000 different species. One should not miss the palm “Imperial” which has been plant by the empress Sissi. Its seven trunks remind on a candelabra. El Palmeral in Elche was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the year 2000. Enjoy the pleasant atmosphere while having a picnic and watching over the bay.

Castillo de Santa Barbara
Alicante is crowned by the castle Castillo de Santa Barbara, set on the imposing rock Bernacantil. The castle was built in the 9th century and is one of the biggest castle areas in Europe. The Moors were the first who recognize that a 166-meter-high-rock is the safest place for a castle. During excavations scientists found tracks of Bronze-age, Iberians and Moors inside of the castle area. Today you can visit the three received parts of the castle, all of different ages. The ancient tower “Torreta”, the intermediate part with the famous hall of Philipp II and the lower part of the castle, built in the 18th century.