This beautiful and popular area of the Spanish coast awaits further exploration because, in addition to the Mediterranean Sea lapping onto sandy beaches and rocky coves, the Costa Blanca has many historical sites to visit with Roman ruins, medieval castles and Medieval villages all set amidst beautiful scenery.
Altea is a hillside town overlooking the sea with a blue domed church at the top watching over the village of whitewashed houses and unique little shops. The historic centre of Altea is very well- preserved and the narrow-cobbled streets keep the heat out so that exploration is a pleasure at any time of the year. The town attracts a lot of Scandinavian visitors to buy property Altea and its surrounding area.
In Calpe we can find the remains of the Roman Queen’s Baths which is still in use today and the influence of the Medieval Moorish occupation of the area can be clearly seen when walking through the streets of the old town.
The port of Denia is overlooked by the historic castle that was built as a fortress to guard the harbour in the 11th century. The towns Archaeological Museum has many interesting artifacts from the regions Moorish period.
Many of the wonderful historical towns along the coast of the Costa Blanca or inland in the ancient villages of the Jalon valley will have property for sale so that you can also enjoy living either alongside the wonderful history of the area or in a traditional townhouse or finca. Perhaps you will find a villa for sale overlooking an historical monument or ruin. The history of the area runs deeper than the sites to be seen, the local traditions, cuisine and festivals also celebrate the past with influences seen in every fiesta and tasted in the flavours of local dishes and wines. Those who enjoy being able to soak up the sun and enjoy the sea and the beach one day and explore a medieval castle the next will find that Buy property in the Costa Blanca is their perfect location. It is also very easy to take day trips to nearby cities like Alicante, Valencia or little further south along the coast to Murcia or Cartegena.
During the height of the silk trade Valencia enjoyed a golden age and built the Silk Exchange which has been recognised as a world heritage site. The Cathedral blends architectural styles and if you have a head for heights, it is worth climbing to the top tower where incredible views of the city can be enjoyed. Other buildings well worth visiting in the city include the pilgrimage site of the Basilica of the forsaken Virgin which is dedicated to the Virgin Mary who is also the city’s patron saint. Part of the city walls also remain in the form of the Serranos Towers which were the city gates and a defence against invaders. Today there are guided tours and exhibitions held here.
The city is overlooked by the Mount Benacantil with its impressive 9th century castle still standing proudly as one of Alicante’s most iconic landmarks. The grounds and castle itself can be explored and magnificent views can be seen from this ancient military fortress of the city and the coast. It also houses a museum with exhibitions of the areas fascinating past. On the outskirts of the city is an archealogical site where the remains of the Roman city known as Lucentum can be visited, the excavation allows visitors to explore the ruins of houses, baths and the forum and gives great insight into ancient Roman life in Alicante.
The Cathedral of Santa Maria and Lorca Castle are places that should be visited if you are travelling to the southern Costa Blanca region for a visit. The cathedral offers wonderful views as well as an interesting mix of architectural styles and the castle is a 13th century Arab citadel with views across the historic city of Lorca.
Anybody interested in Roman history should visit this town where there is a magnificent example of a Roman theatre. It is carved into the hillside and, as well as being popular with tourists, it is still used for cultural events. Next to the theatre is the ancient Roman forum where the remains of temples, squares and other administrative buildings from that time can be explored. There are so many important and interesting buildings in Cartegena including a museum of underwater Archaeology which houses a collection of shipwrecks and artifacts from various times in history.
There can be no doubt that when you Buy property in the Costa Blanca you are also investing in Spain’s history which still influences the way of life along this beautiful coastline.