Nestled on Spain’s Costa Blanca, Altea's old town—known as Casco Antiguo—is a gem of Mediterranean charm. Perched atop a hill offering breathtaking sea views, this historic district enchants visitors with its winding cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses adorned with flowers. The village is renowned for its iconic church, crowned by striking blue-and-white domes that dominate the landscape. Rich in history and well-preserved heritage, Altea is considered one of the most beautiful villages in the Valencian Community. Its picturesque historic center—with white façades and blue-tiled roofs—has earned it nicknames like the "Pearl of the Costa Blanca" and the "Dome of the Mediterranean." This postcard-perfect old town is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking culture, tranquility, and local authenticity.
History and Evolution
The site of Altea has been inhabited since antiquity. The Iberians first settled near the Algar River’s mouth, and later, the Greeks established a trading post called Althaia (named after Althaea, a Greek mythological heroine) to trade with local populations. The name suggests healing properties, implying the area was known for its beneficial virtues.
In the Middle Ages, Altea was part of the Moorish taifa (emirate) of Denia, where Arabs developed irrigation systems, promoting agriculture. Reconquered by King James I of Aragon in 1244, the town was fortified with walls to defend against raids, shaping the labyrinth of narrow streets that define its historic center today. A castle was built atop the hill, where the current church now stands, forming the heart of the fortified village.
Over the following centuries, Altea faced attacks by Barbary pirates. By the late 16th century, these threats had nearly emptied the region. To counteract this, new defensive walls were erected, and the town was repopulated around a renovated fortress. Altea officially gained town status in 1729, with around 5,000 inhabitants by the 18th and 19th centuries, primarily reliant on fishing and agriculture.
It was only from the 1950s onwards, with the rise of tourism, that the population significantly increased, expanding beyond its walls to the coastal plain. Despite modern development, Casco Antiguo has preserved its original charm and was declared a Historical-Artistic Ensemble (Bien de Interés Cultural) in 2013 by the Valencian government, highlighting its historical significance.
Architectural Influences and Heritage
Casco Antiguo’s architecture reflects its multicultural history. Its maze-like streets date back to Moorish times, designed to confuse invaders. Mediterranean and Arabic influences are evident in its white façades, hidden courtyards, wrought iron balconies, and solid wooden doors reminiscent of traditional Moorish medinas. Charming details like flower-filled stairs and colorful ceramic tiles adorn its paved alleys.
Dominating the hill, the 18th-century church, Nuestra Señora del Consuelo, with its iconic blue-and-white tiled domes, symbolizes the town. The Church Square, formerly a castle site, offers panoramic bay views.
Remnants of Altea’s fortifications remain, including two ancient arched gates: Portal Vell (17th century) and Portal Nou (18th century). Passing through these stone arches evokes Altea’s fortified past. Segments of walls and bastions remain integrated into the urban landscape, preserving the town’s defensive heritage. The harmonious blend of winding streets, uniformly white houses, and historic monuments grants Altea’s old town a unique architectural identity along Spain’s coast.
Ambiance and Local Life
Visitors to Casco Antiguo immediately notice its distinctive atmosphere. Far from the bustling nearby resorts, time seems to slow here. Artists, painters, sculptors, and musicians have long been drawn to this bohemian neighborhood, enriching its creative spirit. Art galleries, workshops, and craft boutiques line every corner, reflecting the village's cultural vitality. This artistic energy, combined with historical surroundings, imbues the old town with authentic charm.
As evening falls, Altea becomes even more enchanting. Small traditional restaurants and intimate cafés set tables on squares and cobblestone streets. Under the glow of lanterns and streetlights, diners enjoy open-air meals accompanied by sea breezes and distant Spanish guitar music. The Plaza de la Iglesia becomes lively during summer nights with artisan markets and street theater, transforming into an open-air stage. Flowered balconies and vibrant doorways enhance the white labyrinth, creating a welcoming and serene atmosphere. Locals proudly interact with travelers, embodying warm Mediterranean hospitality. Walking through Altea’s old town reveals a lifestyle where simplicity and everyday beauty shine.
Interesting Anecdotes
Beyond its postcard appearance, Altea’s historic center is full of captivating stories.
- Every September, Altea celebrates the traditional Moros y Cristianos festival, featuring costume parades and reenactments of medieval battles, commemorating the Reconquista and conflicts with Barbary pirates.
- Did you know? Altea partially owes its name to the Greek goddess Althaea. Local legend says ancient Greeks, charmed by the area’s beauty and climate, considered it a haven of wellness, naming it Althaia, derived from the Greek word for "healing." This poetic origin captures the soothing ambiance visitors experience today.
- The designation as Bien de Interés Cultural in 2013 was a proud moment for Alteans. As a local representative remarked, “Our historic center isn’t merely picturesque—it’s now a heritage treasure guaranteed to endure through time.”
Visiting Altea’s Casco Antiguo means stepping into a timeless landscape where each stone narrates history, seamlessly blending tradition with seaside living.
