SIGHTSEEING IN BENIDORM
We start the visit in the Plaza de Canalejas square at the point where the old Casa
Consistorial (City Hall) is located. In this area, we have one of Benidorm's most
typical streets known as "el Carrer dels Gats" (the street of the cats), where you
can contemplate the historical old buildings. Moving on up the paved steps we arrive
at the San Jaime Church which dates back to the 18th century.
1740 is an historic year for Benidorm as it was the year that the Virgen del Sufragio,
patron of Benidorm was discovered. The town's fishermen were assigned the task of
installing nearly all the tuna fisheries known as almadrabas (difficult art of tuna
fishing, which involves a complicated system of nets) in the Mediterranean. At this
time, Benidorm was also undergoing a period of considerable growth which resulted
in the creation of new streets: Santa Faz, Condestable Zaragoza, Alicante, etc.
... which all form part of today's old quarter.
One of the most well known areas of the city is the "El Castillo-Mirador" (The Castle
Viewing Platform) also know as the "Mediterranean Balcony" of Benidorm. Although
only a few ruins remain from the original walls, this used to be the fortress that
stood to defend against the invading Algerian and Berber pirates in the 14th, 15th
and 16th centuries.
After relaxing and taking in the magnificent views at this landmark observation
point, we go down the stone steps which lead to the renovated Benidorm Port. Next
to this we find the Mal Pas beach which is 110 metres long and sheltered by the
port and castle. This is the area of the city where all the seafaring activities
unfold. It is famous for its boat trips from the mainland to Benidorm Island, also
known as "The Island of Journalists".
Poniente Beach is equally famous. Measuring almost 3 kilometres in length, this
is also the location of "Elche Park", so named for its beautiful palm trees that
originated from neighbouring Alicante.
We resume our itinerary at the "Aigüera Park" designed by Ricardo Bofill, it has
large green spaces and is consequently known as the lungs of Benidorm, with a central
walkway and two auditoriums where concerts are held, including the famous Benidorm
Song Festival, as well as theatre and dance performances and a whole host of other
events... The new Town Hall is also located here in a futuristic building in both design
and functionality.
Finally, to conclude this attractive tour, what could be better than to a stroll
along the new "Levante Beach Promenade" which stretches for over 2 kilometres. When
night-time falls, this great avenue turns into a recreation area for all its visitors
to enjoy.