Enchanting Alicante castles

Jun 4
07:25

2011

alecdarian

alecdarian

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Alicante is an interesting region to visit with its fabulous castles that give you a feel of the medieval times. Nevertheless, these castles never fail to attract tourists by the thousands to Alicante. Two main castles are worthy of a mention here.

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Saint Barbara Castle This impressive castle is located at Mount Benacantil which in Arabic,Enchanting Alicante castles Articles means Laqant’s Peak. This castle dominates Alicante landscape from its lofty height of 166m. This makes Saint or Santa Barbara castle as the most outstanding city landmark. It is one of Spain’s biggest medieval fortresses built in the 9th century during the Muslim rule. Today, Santa Barbara castle is opened for public viewing; from its premise, you will be enthralled by its breathtaking bay and countryside views of Alicante. There is also an old palace in the castle ground that has cannons and ancient artifacts. The dungeons will be an interesting walk with its cold walls and high towers.Santa Barbara castle is more famous than other castles in this region with more history than the rest. Other sights of interestAlthough it may not sound interestingly so, the administrative complex doubles up as a military base with the Governor's House, Guard Wing and a garrison courtyard located in it. You will also view the Félix Berenguer de Marquina monument. He was New Mexico’s Viceroy as well as the Captain-General posted to the Philippines. There are castle evenings during the months of July and August where concerts are held on Friday as well as Saturday nights. You can enjoy a walk to these castles with interesting sights along the way such as the Barrio de Santa Cruz or the Holy Cross and small but quaint whitewashed old houses on narrow streets with blooming flowers. At the slopes, you will enter Park Ereta which leads to the fort. A nice restaurant that offers an amazing panoramic view of the Old Town will be a good place for a rest before you reach the castle at the top.Access to the castle is made easy with an elevator at Postiguet beach. Alternatively, you can drive up along Vázquez de Mella road on the mountain’s northern side.An interesting sight at central Postiguet beach is located at Santa Barbara castle where the mountain’s left side often resembles a human face profile which is named “The Moor's Face”. It has become one of Alicante Spain’s most significant images that can be found on the region’s coat of arms. San Fernando castleThis Castillo or castle is smaller than Santa Barbara. San Fernando castle was built in 19th century. It is located on Tossal hill. It has become a villa spanien tourist sight for rest and leisure.