A History Of Calpe – Property For Sale In Calpe
Dominated by the spectacular rocky promontory Ifach, Calpe has a long history as a working port and fishing area on Spain’s Costa Blanca. When you are looking for a property for sale in Calpe, it is nice to get to know the area where you hope to live, and finding out about its history is a good way to find out what makes the town tick!!!
Calpe the Early Days
The area first became an attractive place to live “before Christ”; the good location and fertility of the land and sea attracted the first inhabitants whose footsteps you would follow when you bought a villa in Calpe. The great location for seafarers meant that this is believed to be one of the first settlements Phoenician sailors established using Ifach as a strategic navigational point. They were followed by the Romas, who were similarly attracted to the area's excellent position on the Mediterranean Sea and named the town “Portus Alonis.” If you buy an apartment in Calpe, you may even find one overlooking the ancient baths, which still swum today.
Medieval Drama
The town changed its name to Calpe with the arrival of the Moors, who established a fortified town at the foot of Ifach and whose influence can still be seen in some of its architecture. The medieval streets of the old town are reminiscent of its past and are an excellent location for finding a traditional townhouse for sale in Calpe. When the Christians re-took the town, they also established their own defenses against Barbary pirates from the Ottoman Empire, who were constantly pillaging Mediterranean towns at this time.
Fishing
Following the drama of the Medieval period, Calpe settled into a peaceful existence, and the townsfolk enjoyed the fresh supply of food from the sea. This fishing village is remembered in the bustling harbor that remains active today, where you might be lucky enough to find an apartment for sale in Calpe overlooking the fisherman at work. The port area is full of wonderful restaurants where you can enjoy the day's freshest catch at reasonable prices.
Tourism
The rise of tourism in the 20th century saw people seeking warmer climates and an escape from rainy, grey weather. Many areas along the coast began to build accommodation, and with the arrival of Charter flights, the affordability of a holiday abroad became a reality for many. As the industry grew, those who visited began to fall in love with the lifestyle Calpe could offer, and many went on to buy property in this area.
Embrace the Lifestyle
Buying a house in Calpe is also about becoming a part of the town’s rich history. Very soon, you will walk through the same narrow streets where Phoenicians and Romans once traded. You can also join in or watch the annual re-enactment of the battles between the Moors and Christians. The experience of living in Calpe will constantly inspire and enrich your life.
Conclusion
Buying a house in Calpe will include you in the ongoing history of this lovely seaside town. Behind the newer apartment blocks, you will be enchanted by the old town and the port areas, and the mountains backing the area hold even more interest and history for you to explore and marvel at. Just ask our knowledgeable team at Hamiltons of London to help you with your search, and you will soon follow in previous Calpe inhabitants' footsteps.
