10 facts about Alicante
Alicante enjoys a privileged location overlooking the stunning Mediterranean coastline.
So aside from its 300 days of sunshine a year, what else does Alicante have to offer? Keep reading to find out.
Birthplace of turrón
Alicante is famous for being the birthplace of turrón, a traditional Spanish nougat made from almonds and honey. This sweet treat, particularly popular during Christmas, has its origins in the nearby town of Jijona, just a short drive from the city.
The iconic Santa Bárbara castle
Perched atop Mount Benacantil, Santa Bárbara Castle is one of the largest medieval fortresses in Spain. Offering panoramic views of the city and the sea, this iconic structure dates back to the 9th century and has witnessed a complex history of Moorish, Christian, and French occupations.
City of light
Alicante is home to the renowned Ciudad de la Luz, a state-of-the-art film studio complex that has become a major hub for European cinema. Established in 2005, the studios have hosted numerous international film and television productions, attracting major filmmakers with their cutting-edge facilities and picturesque Mediterranean backdrop.
Home to the oldest palm forest in Europe
Just outside Alicante lies the Palmeral of Elche, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This incredible palm grove, planted during Roman times and later expanded by the Moors, is the largest in Europe. With over 200,000 palm trees, it creates a unique landscape that has become one of Spain’s natural treasures.
Alicante’s wine heritage
Alicante’s winemaking tradition dates back centuries, particularly known for producing the sweet wine Fondillón, one of the oldest wines in the world. The region’s unique climate and soil have made it an ideal place for growing grapes, and Alicante’s vineyards are celebrated for their high-quality wines, especially Monastrell reds.
Local lingos
Alicante’s local dialect, Valencian, is a variant of Catalan and is widely spoken alongside Spanish. In addition to official Spanish, many local signs, menus, and communications are presented in Valencian, reflecting the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of the region.
Alicante’s own marble
The city is famous for its unique marble, known as “Piedra de Villafranqueza,” which is used extensively in local architecture and construction. This marble is prized for its distinctive color and durability and has been used in numerous historic and modern buildings in the region.
Rice, a culinary staple
Alicante is renowned for its rice dishes, especially the traditional “paella”, which is a local specialty. The region’s fertile lands and Mediterranean climate are perfect for growing high-quality rice, with Alicante producing approximately 30,000 tons annually. This essential ingredient is skillfully used in various flavourful dishes, highlighting the city’s rich culinary heritage.
Fiesta fun
Alicante is known for its Hogueras de San Juan, a spectacular festival held in June that features giant papier-mâché figures, fireworks, bonfires, and street parties. The festival, which celebrates the summer solstice, transforms the city into a vibrant celebration of fire and festivity.
Gothic wonderland
The Basilica of Santa María, Alicante’s oldest church, is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. It was built on the site of an old mosque and features stunning elements like a richly decorated altar and intricate stone carvings, offering a glimpse into the city’s medieval past.
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