The impressive Santa Barbara Castle is located in the city of Alicante and is one of the oldest medieval castles in Europe being well over 1.000 years old.
Santa Barbara castle sits 166 meters high on Mount Benacantil overlooking the city of Alicante offering some of the most stunning views you will find anywhere in Spain.
It was officially declared an asset of cultural interest in 196 and is one of the best-preserved castles of its kind with remains still in existence today that date back to the 11th Century. It is amazing to think that up to 14.000 soldiers were once housed within the castle grounds.
Santa Barbara is located on a large complex offering visitors a chance to see ancient lookout towers, dungeons, a palace, moats, gardens and breathtaking views over the city, sea and surrounding mountains.
It is made up of three distinct areas.
The upper enclosure, “ La Torreta”, where you will find the keep, this area dates back to the 14th century.
The midsection is where you ill find the Salon Felipe II and the large guardhouse.
The lower enclosure is home to the Revellin del Bon Repos.
Apart from military purposes, the castle has been used as a prison over time. You can even see carvings made on the stone floors by prisoners who were held there during the Civil War in the early 20th Century.
Guided Tour Of The Castle And Old Quarter
A really great way to discover the Castle and the Old Quarter is by booking a place on the Seven Secrets of Alicante Discovery Tour. This top tour lasts around 2.5 hours and starts at Central Market to sample various snacks typical of the area. Conquer more than 1,000 years of history as you tour the Santa Barbara Castle.
Descend to the historic city center to discover the most important monuments and Alicante's seven secrets. Prepare to be surprised by the beauty of the Old Quarter and the countless anecdotes, history, legends, and intrigue responsible for the town's current character.
Finally, visit a tapas bar, run by your guide's childhood friend and known to serve the best tapas in Alicante. Taste one of the award-winning tapas paired with a typical, alcoholic or non-alcoholic Spanish drink.
Explore The Delights Of The Old Town
Sat between the base of the castle gardens and the modern port area, you will find the old quarter, which is a great place to explore on foot.
The area is known as “ El Barrio” or The Neighbourhood and is full of cultural and historical sites, including the Town Hall, the Plaza del Mar, Convent of the Blood Sisters, Saint Nicholas Cathedral and the neighbourhoods of Santa Cruz, the Basilica of Santa Maria and the MACA Contemporary Art Museum.
Useful Information
Car Parking:
There is no parking within the grounds of the castle so it is recommended to use one of the public parking companies located in the old town.
Castle Opening Times:
Between 15th November and 27th February:
Monday to Sunday, from 10 a.m to 6 p.m.
Between 28th February and 16th June:
Monday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Between 17th June and 4th September:
Monday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Between 5th September and 14th November:
Monday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Access to the Castle is only allowed up to 30 minutes before closing time.
There is a guided tour each day at 12.00 noon.
Shuttle Service:
There is a very good shuttle service which runs every 20 minutes and costs just €1.45 each way.
Lift Service:
Alternatively, there is a lift that operates every 40 minutes. The last lift down is 20 minutes before closing time. The cost is €2.70 one way and is free of charge for pensioners.
Walking:
A walk up to the castle is for the fit but is highly recommended using the well-prepared footpaths to the top. There are also benches that are perfect to stop along the way to have a picnic whilst enjoying the views.
