Local history

Records show that the Iberian peninsula has been populated since prehistoric times, with modern man putting in an appearance around 35,000 BC. Around 4,000 BC Spain was invaded by the Iberians. Around 1,100 BC, Phoenician seafarers (present day Lebanon) founded many coastal villages and Spain was later occupied by Rome, following the Punic Wars and remained in Iberia for the next six centuries. Following the decline of the Roman Empire (5th century) the area was briefly ruled by the German Visigoths. Then, around 711 AD, North African Muslims invaded via Gibraltar, occupying the whole peninsula. Moorish rule lasted (especially in the Almeria area) for more than seven centuries, slowly having their lands encroached upon by Christian rulers from Northern Spain. Indeed, Spanish architecture today still retains a Moorish influence. The last Moorish kingdom fell to Isabella and Ferdinand (parents of Henry VIIIs first wife, Katherine of Aragorn) in 1492. Shortly afterwards, all Jews were also expelled from Spain.

When the Bourbon dynasty inherited the Spanish throne (18th Century), Spain fell to French influence for over 100 years, until Napoleon’s defeat during the Peninsular War. The 19th century was a period of intense internal conflict between conservatives and liberals, the struggles continuing until the dictatorship of Franco following the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939). Spain entered a period of European isolation under Franco but with the accession of King Juan Carlos to the throne in 1975 a democratic state was soon founded and Spain now a key member of the EEC.

Places of Historical Interest – Costa Almeria
	Almeria City: The Alcazaba Dominating the landscape above the city of Almeria, the Alcazaba dates from 955 AD, when Almeria was a strategically important Moorish port. There are many examples of Moorish architecture, fountains and beautiful gardens to wander through and (if you produce your passport) entrance is free to EEC citizens.
	Almeria City: Cathedral The Cathedral dates from 1524 and lies in the heart of Almeria City. The facade is more reminiscent of a fortress than a church and the interior is a combination of Gothic/Renaissance design with beautiful Gothic ribbed ceiling, jasper and local marble trimmings and beautiful choir stalls of carved walnut.
	Granada: The Alhambra Palace of the last Moorish Princes to rule in Spain, The Alhambra is an exquisite mix of gardens, fountains and Moorish architecture. Often quoted as “The Eighth Wonder of the World” a visit to the Alhambra is a step back in time to another world. Book a visiting slot via any BBVA Bank.
Places of Historical Interest – Costa Blanca
	Alicante City: Castle of Santa Barbara Located on Mount Benacantil overlooking the City, this castle dates from the 9th century. Originally Moorish, it has undergone extensive reformation during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Opened to the public in 1963 (with good access via lift for those with mobility difficulties) the Castle also has extensive gardens.
	Calpe: Peñon d’Ifach Nature Reserve The towering cliff (a maritime signpost for old Phoenician and Roman sailors) is one of the best known images of the Costa Blanca and is an environmentally protected area. Close by are salt flats and ancient Roman ruins, including the Queen’s Baths (a romantic title, the ruins are thought to be an ancient Roman fishery).
	Guadalest Originally a Moorish stronghold and located 25 km inland from Benidorm amidst some of the most spectacular scenery in the Costa Blanca, the town of Guadalest is an “Eagle’s Nest” perched on a pinnacle of rock. It has a population of only 200 people but is one of the top three tourist attractions in Spain. There are many cafés, museums and shops in the village and a viewing platform with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Places of Historical Interest – Costa Calida
	Cartagena A town truly steeped in history. Just some highlights include: the old Cathedral (13th Century); remains of an ancient Roman Theatre; the Moorish Colonnade; the National Museum of Maritime Archaeology and various architectural masterpieces, old and new. Torres Park is well worth a visit, as is the Castle of la Concepción, which has been a fortress of Carthaginians, Romans, Visigoths, Arabs and Castilians.
	Elche Established by the Moors, Elche is a real garden city famous for its palm forests of over a million trees. This city has been declared an UNESCO World Heritage Site and also boasts a beautiful Basilica where Medieval Mystery Plays are performed each August (on the Feast of the Assumption). If you love history and nature, this is a perfect city to visit.
	Orihuela Orihuela is rich in history with many museums, palaces and churches. Well worth visiting are the Holy Cathedral Church (housing “The temptation of Saint Thomas Aquinas” by Velazquez) and the Church of Santiago (originally a Mosque). Most of Orihuela's architecture can be traced back to either the late Gothic, Renaissance or Baroque periods.

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