Benissa, a city at the meeting point of sea and mountains

Benissa is a town in the province of Alicante. It is known for its charming small bays located between cliffs and a beautiful mountainous area, ideal for hiking lovers.

A walk during the sunset - Benissa

Benissa is sometimes called "The Little Europe", because of the various nationalities of its inhabitants. It is located 73 km away from Alicante. It is an attractive town where the sea and mountains meet, creating a unique place on this part of the Iberian Peninsula. The coast is 4 kilometres long and is one of the most beautiful bays on the Costa Blanca. Among its most popular beaches are the following: Cala Lobella, Baladrar, La Fustera and Cala Pinet. The crystal clear waters are ideal for water sports such as diving, sailing, windsurfing and kayaking. The rich flora and fauna and sea caves are waiting to be explored. In addition, hiking is another popular activity taken up by tourists. It is also worth mentioning that the town is surrounded by mountains, such as the Bèrnia Mountains, ideal for walks.

History

The name of the city, Benissa, comes from the Arab tribe of Beni-Hisa or Beni-Eyce, which means the Sons of Christ. After the Christian conquest (1248) by the army of James II of Aragon, the town was inhabited by the inhabitants of the Pyrenees, although most of the population remained followers of Islam for centuries. The last Muslim citizens were expelled in 1609. Benissa, along with Altea, Calpe and Teulada, formed a seniorate, whose ruler was the Sicilian Admiral Roger of Lauria. In the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries the area suffered numerous attacks from African pirates. The interior of Parròquia Puríssima Xiqueta and Sant Pere Apòstol Cathedral The picturesque interior of Parròquia Puríssima Xiqueta and Sant Pere Apòstol Cathedra.

Attractions

The old town is extremely noteworthy due to its beautiful buildings, such as the 15th century Constitución square, Renaissance palace houses, the neo-Gothic cathedral in La Marina and Calle Desamparados street, which is full of magnificent houses with wrought-iron bars. In April, Benissa organises local fiestas in honour of Purísima Xiqueta, while in June there are celebrations to commemorate the Moors and Christians. The local gastronomy, with its exquisite rice and meat dishes, also deserve to be metnioned. In addition, golf lovers can take up a game of gold in the San Jaime Golf Club resort, which offers nine holes and sixty courses. Are you interested in buying an apartment? Check out the current property offers in Benissa or contact our specialists - we provide advice and assistance during each stage of the property purchase. If you want to know more about the costs of buying a property in Spain, check out our article on the subject - Cost of owning a property in Spain.