Alicante is situated in eastern Spain, in the autonomous community of Valencia, in a coastal area dominated by high altitudes. Its warm weather, spectacular sights and climate make it a perfect spot for touristic development. Although the history of this area goes back seven millennia in terms of traces of human habitation discovered, its official fortification is attributed to a ruler of ancient Carthage.

One of the city’s most priced attraction is deemed to be the medieval Castle of Santa Barbara, built on a steep rocky hill overlooking the city, with a history dated back to the 9th century. Also, the shoreline defence structures built between the 15th and 18th century to counteract pirate attacks, known as the towers of the Huerta de Alicante, have always stimulated popular imagination.

Alicante is also famous for its many religious edifices, most built in medieval times, such as St Nicholas Cathedral and Basilica of Santa Maria, excellent examples of the baroque and gothic architectural styles. Alicante is also visited by those interested in ancient history, at it is home to the ruins of one of Spain’s oldest fortified settlements, Akra Leuka, or Lucentum, as it was referred to by Roman occupiers. A visit to the city’s museums, such as the Bonfire Festivities Museum, Museum of Contemporary Art or Bullfighting Museum is always an enriching experience.

A perfect time to visit Alicante is the aestival season, particularly the summer solstice, just in time to catch St John’s Bonfires, a literally fiery festival Alicante has gained worldwide fame for. Every summer is celebrated with numerous stage performances of music and drama, complemented by an eventful nightlife. A traditional event is a festival named Moors and Christians, celebrating the overturning of Moorish invaders and comprising a mock staging of this victory, complete with costumes and parades.