Alicante Old Town

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Stanta Barbara Castle

Once the targeted by pirates sailing along the coast, Alicante still shows remains of walled fortifications around what is now its old town. These can be identified as stone crosses which mark where gates once stood in three locations. However, there is much more to see and experience in Alicante’s old town, or el barrio, than remains of its old walled defences. There is an abundance of historic buildings from churches to museums, along with a multitude of clubs, cafes and restaurants. All that the old town has to offer is easily accessible by foot due to its compact nature. If that wasn’t enough, Santa Barbara Castle which looms above this region of Alicante provides a fantastic back-drop for your explorations. In fact, Parque de la Ereta, a park designed by French architect to be in harmony with nature, offers a walkway between the castle and the old town.

iStock 000010012909XSmall St. Nicolis Catheral 200x300 Alicante Old TownThe small medieval streets of the triangular region that is the old town provide a relaxing setting for a stroll without any fear of getting lost. You’ll likely come across the town hall, or Ayubtamiento, an outstanding example of baroque architecture with twin towers reaching 35m high. The cathedral of San Nicolas de Bari, which dates back to the 17th century, can be found nearby and is another stunning example of baroque architecture. With features such as its high alter and tranquil garden, this cathedral is particularly memorable. Also in the old town and dating back to the late 14th century is the church of Sant Bartolomé, it is now a listed National Historic and Artistic Monument.

Alicante’s old town is also home to museums such as the Gravine Museum of Fine Arts which showcases Spanish art over three floors, and the Museu de Arte del Siglo XX Asegurada, a modern art museum within the city’s oldest building which dates back to 1685 where works by Picasso and Calder Dali among others are displayed.
After a day of exploring the historic buildings, cafes and curio shops in the area, there are plenty of restaurants to cater for all tastes. With a multitude of bars and pubs, you won’t find yourself short of places to enjoy a drink or two. With a diverse collection of venues, Alicante’s old town is sure to provide a fantastic night out.
With souvenir shopping, opportunities to be immersed in culture and great nightlife on offer, the old town region of Alicante will please everyone around the clock.