|
The Castle viewpoint: This viewpoint is located atop the large rock known as Punta Canfali, which separates Benidorm’s two main beaches. It was once the site of a fortress built in 1325 to defend the area against raids by Algerian and Berber pirates during the 14th, 15th, and 16th centuries. The castle was attacked and partially destroyed in the 15th century, later repaired, and ultimately completely demolished in the 19th century during the War of Independence.
Originally, the fortress was surrounded by a walled enclosure, documented in historical records from the period. Over time, however, the walls fell into disuse, and today only a few remains can still be seen on the rocks of the viewpoint.
This scenic spot is now known as the Mirador or Balcón del Mediterráneo (“Balcony over the Mediterranean”), offering panoramic views of the sea.
Combining history, culture, and natural beauty, the Mirador or Balcón del Mediterráneo is a must-see attraction and a perfect spot to pause, take photographs, and appreciate the charm of Benidorm.
|
|
|
|
Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana: The Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana is located at the highest point of the old town, in Plaza de San Jaime, and can be reached via Carrer dels Gats, one of the most popular streets in the historic centre, distinguished by its cobblestone paving.
Built in the 18th century in a neoclassical style, the church follows a Latin cross plan, with a central nave and small side chapels. Its semicircular dome rises over the transept without a drum, resting directly on pendentives.
Inside, on the left-hand side, is the Chapel of the Virgin of Suffrage, where visitors can see the small carving discovered adrift at sea on 15 March 1740. The Virgin of Suffrage, together with Saint James, is the patron saint of Benidorm. The choir houses a large pipe organ, installed in 2012. Externally, the church features a simple white façade accented with ochre cornices and mouldings.
|
|
|
|
L'Aiguera Park: Designed by architect Ricardo Bofill in the late 1980s, this green space is a fine example of neoclassical style. It consists of a long park that separates the historic centre from the newer part of the town.
Within the park are two open-air auditoriums that host a wide range of cultural events and activities throughout the year: the Óscar Esplá Auditorium, located near City Hall, and the larger Julio Iglesias Auditorium, named after one of the winners of the Benidorm International Song Festival—an event that brought the town widespread recognition during the 1960s and 1970s. At the far end of the park stands the bullring, completing this important cultural and recreational area.
|
|
|
|
The Tossal de La Cala: At the far end of Poniente Beach lies El Tossal de la Cala, the site of one of the earliest human settlements in the area. This archaeological site was declared an Asset of Cultural Interest (BIC) in September 1984.
El Tossal de la Cala was a fort, or castellum, commissioned by the Roman general Sertorius as part of a fortification plan along the northern Alicante coastline, probably around 77 BC. It formed part of a chain of Roman coastal military outposts, strategically positioned on cliffs and coves that were difficult to access. These defensive structures played a vital role in monitoring and controlling the movement of both friendly and hostile ships during periods of naval conflict.
This site is also where the famous Venus Bacchica was discovered, an important artifact now housed in the Archaeological Museum of Alicante.
|
|
 |
|
Caval Point (Punta del Cavall or Seguró) and Morales Tower (Torre de Morales or Escaletes):
These two watchtowers are listed as Assets of Cultural Interest (BIC). They form part of a network of towers built along the coastline in the 16th century to defend the town against pirate attacks. Positioned within sight of one another, the towers enabled warning signals to be sent when enemy ships were spotted.
Torre Punta del Cavall (also known as Torre de les Caletes) is located within the Serra Gelada Natural Park. It was constructed using irregular masonry blocks bonded with lime mortar.
Torre Morales stands in the Cala de Benidorm area, along Avenida de Villajoyosa. It is one of the so-called “field towers,” which maintained visual contact with the coastal towers. Square in shape, it was built with masonry blocks and rough ashlar stone at the corners. Originally, a house was attached to the tower.
|
|
 |