Many people that travel to Alicante are particularly interested in its cultural heritage. For sure, churches and other sacral buildings are among the most important cultural landmarks of Spain.
St Mary’s Church (la Iglesia de Santa María)
This solid-looking church is the oldest one in the city. It was constructed between the 14th and 16th centuries over the ruins of the central Moorish mosque. Originally built in the Gothic style with one lateral tower, it was redesigned during the later centuries. The portal stonework is beautiful example of the baroque art, while the high alter in its interior is in golden rococo style.
You can also find other valuable pieces of art, like Gothic stone sculptures from the 15th century, a white marble font from the 16th century and a baroque organ built in 1653. The church is situated on the Plaza de Santa María square, very close to the City Hall.
Address: Plaza Santa María (square), Alicante Spain
Opening hours: from 10:30 to 12:00 and from 18:00 to 19.30.
Tel: (+34) 965 216 026
Concathedral of Saint Nicholas of Bari (Concatedral de San Nicolás de Bari)
The most important of Alicante churches is situated in the center of the Old Town at the Plaza Abad Penalva square. It was built between 1616 and 1662 over the remains of an old mosque, having a base in the form of the Latin cross. Its modest facade is an example of the early non-ornamented baroque style. The interior is spacious and richly decorated with a wonderful dome 45m above the floor.
When visiting this church, pay attention on its communion chapel, which is considered one of the finest examples of Spanish baroque.
Address: Plaza Abad Penalva (square) 1, Alicante Spain
Opening hours: from 11:30 to 12:30 and from 17:30 to 18.30.
Tel: (+34) 965 212 662
The chapel of Santa Cruz
Climbing up the Benacantil hill, you can visit this small chapel in the colorful suburb of Santa Cruz. It was built at the end of 18th century. It is a small white structure, harmoniously incorporated in the surrounding narrow streets. This is a starting point of traditional religious processions during Easter celebrations.
Address: Barrio de Santa Cruz (suburb), Alicante Spain
The chapel of St Rocco
Quite close to the chapel of Santa Cruz, you can find the chapel of St Rocco, co-patron of Alicante. It was built in 1559 and later reconstructed in 1875. Inside the church, you can see the figure of the Gypsy Christ.
Address: San Roque street, Alicante Spain
