Alicante

Alicante's rich history is the result of millennia of settlement and its strategic location on the Mediterranean. The city was significantly shaped by Iberian, Roman, and Moorish cultures, each leaving a unique legacy.Alicante’s origins date back to pre-Roman times, when Iberian settlements defined the region, followed by the Roman city of Lucentum. A significant period was the more than 500 years of Moorish rule, which developed the city as Al-Laqant into an important trading center, leaving traces in its toponymy as well as in agricultural techniques. In the 13th century, the Christian Reconquista took place, after which Alicante became part of the Kingdom of Valencia.Alicante’s architecture is a multifaceted chronicle of these eras. The Castillo de Santa Bárbara, majestically perched on Monte Benacantil, is an outstanding example of military architecture, ranging from Roman foundations through Moorish extensions to Christian fortifications. The old town features winding alleys reminiscent of Moorish urban planning, as well as Baroque and Gothic elements in churches like the Concatedral de San Nicolás de Bari.Cultural peculiarities manifest themselves in traditional festivals such as the “Hogueras de San Juan” in June, a UNESCO-recognized spectacle of fire, art, and music celebrating the summer solstice. The local cuisine, characterized by rice dishes like Arroz a Banda and fresh seafood, reflects the region’s maritime identity and agricultural diversity.

Alicante is easy to explore thanks to its well-developed transport network and compact size. The modern TRAM network efficiently connects the city center with suburbs and coastal towns like Benidorm, while the extensive bus network also reaches more remote areas. For public transport, a rechargeable Mobilis card is recommended, offering multi-journey discounts and available at TRAM stops or kiosks; additionally, apps like Moovit can be very helpful for route planning.Within the city center and along the promenade, Alicante is extremely pedestrian-friendly, ideal for relaxed strolls to the main attractions. For shorter distances or to explore the coast, rental bikes and e-scooters are available at numerous stations. Taxis are also a convenient option, especially for late-night journeys or from the airport, with ride-sharing services like Cabify also available; a practical tip is to keep cash handy for smaller taxi rides.