Alicante history

The history of Alicante is a kaleidoscope of cultures and eras that have left their mark on the appearance of this sunny city on the Mediterranean coast. From ancient Iberian settlements to its transformation into an important Spanish trading port, every stage has contributed to its unique character.

Foundation and Name Changes

The first traces of humans in this region date back to the 3rd millennium BC, although the history of the city itself begins much later. Initially, there was an Iberian settlement here that actively traded with the Greeks and Phoenicians. The Greeks, appreciating the strategic position at the foot of Mount Benacantil, founded a colony here called Akra Leuka ("White Peak"). Later, in 230 BC, the Carthaginian general Hamilcar Barca established a fortified settlement here. With the arrival of the Romans, the city received a new name — Lucentum ("City of Light"). After the fall of the Roman Empire and a period of Visigothic rule, the city was conquered by the Moors and became known as Al-Laqant, from which its modern name, Alicante, is derived.

Key Factors of Development

The development of Alicante was determined by several key factors:

• Geographical Location: Its location on the Mediterranean coast, with a convenient harbour protected by a high rock, made the city an ideal place for maritime trade and defence.
• Trade: For centuries, the port of Alicante was one of the most important in Spain. Olive oil, fruits, wool, and agricultural produce were exported from here, ensuring economic prosperity. In the 19th century, with the construction of the railway linking the city to Madrid, its role as a trading hub grew even further.
• Strategic Importance: For centuries, Castilians and Aragonese fought for control of the city and its Santa Bárbara Castle, towering atop Mount Benacantil. This struggle shaped the cultural and political identity of the region.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

Early Alicante was a melting pot of cultures. Greek, Roman, Moorish, and later, Gothic architectural styles and traditions intertwined closely here. The city's economy was inextricably linked to the sea: trade, fishing, and port services formed the basis of its inhabitants' welfare. Agriculture in the surrounding areas also played an important role, supplying the city and export markets. After the Reconquista, Alicante received the status of a royal city and the right to representation in the Parliament of Valencia, which strengthened its political and economic status.

Chronology of Key Events

• 3rd Century BC: On the site of the modern city, Carthaginian general Hamilcar Barca founds a fortified settlement called Akra Leuka ("White Peak").
• 201 BC: The Romans conquer the city and name it Lucentum ("City of Light").
• Year 718: The city comes under Moorish rule and receives the name Al-Laqant, from which the modern name originates.
• Year 1248: The troops of the Castilian King Alfonso X the Wise retake the city during the Reconquista.
• Year 1296: Alicante becomes part of the Kingdom of Valencia under the Crown of Aragon.
• Year 1490: King Ferdinand II grants Alicante the status of a city (City Charter).
• Year 1709: During the War of the Spanish Succession, Santa Bárbara Castle is besieged and bombarded by English troops.
• Year 1858: Opening of the railway line connecting Alicante with Madrid, which gave a powerful impetus to the development of the port and the city's economy.
• 25 May 1938: During the Spanish Civil War, a tragic bombing of the Central Market occurs, one of the deadliest incidents of the entire conflict.
• 1960s: A tourism boom begins, transforming Alicante and the Costa Blanca coast into one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe.

Stages of Formation and Development

The development of Alicante is a story of constant transformation, where each era opened new opportunities for growth. From a strategic outpost to a resort capital taken with pride by Spain, the city was shaped by maritime trade, engineering innovations, and cultural exchange. Below are the key moments that defined its modern appearance.

• Roman Urbanisation (Lucentum period). The Romans did not just conquer the settlement but also laid the foundations of urban infrastructure and port facilities. This determined the fate of the place as an important transport hub for centuries to come.
• Arab Agrarian Revolution. During the period of Moorish rule, a unique system of irrigation and water conservation was introduced. This turned arid lands into fertile gardens, creating a powerful base for the export of fruits, vegetables, and produce.
• Receiving City Status (1490). King Ferdinand II granted the settlement the official title of a city. This event ensured political autonomy, voting rights in the cortes, and stimulated demographic growth.
• Trade Boom of the 18th Century. The permission for free trade with colonies in the Americas (1778) gave a powerful impulse to the economy. The port became one of the wealthiest in the Mediterranean, which was reflected in the flourishing of urban architecture and the appearance of merchant mansions.
• Railway Line (1858). The launch of the first line connecting the coast with Madrid became a turning point in history. The city effectively became the "sea gate" of the capital, which significantly increased trade turnover and strengthened its strategic importance.
• Demolition of Fortress Walls (Late 19th Century). The removal of medieval defensive boundaries allowed the city to expand. Construction began on the "Ensanche" district with wide avenues and parks, forming the elegant and spacious look of the modern centre.
• Tourism Transformation (1960s). The construction of the international airport and the large-scale development of hotel infrastructure radically changed the economic model of the region. The Costa Blanca coast became a global brand, and tourism became the main engine of progress.
• Modern Renovation (21st Century). The reimagining of the port area, the launch of high-speed AVE trains, and the development of the Distrito Digital cluster are turning the city into a modern centre of innovation while preserving its historical charm.

The architectural appearance of Alicante is a fascinating journey through the centuries, where each period has left its unique mark. From medieval churches to modern buildings, the city represents a harmonious combination of various styles reflecting its rich history. A walk through its streets allows one to trace how eras and tastes have changed, forming a unique urban environment.

Middle Ages: Gothic

After the Reconquista, buildings in the Gothic style began to appear in the city. The brightest and oldest example is the Basilica of Santa Maria, erected in the 14th century on the site of the former main mosque. Although its façade was later rebuilt in the Baroque style, original Gothic elements have been preserved inside, including an impressive vault and ancient statues. This style, characteristic of medieval Spain, is distinguished by the austerity of forms and vertical aspiration.

Renaissance and Baroque

The Renaissance and Baroque periods gifted Alicante with several iconic buildings. The Co-cathedral of Saint Nicholas (San Nicolás de Bari), built in the 17th century, is an example of the restrained Herreriano style, transitional from the late Renaissance to early Baroque. Its strict façade contrasts with a majestic 45-metre dome. A true gem of the Spanish Baroque is the City Hall (Ayuntamiento) of the 18th century with its lavish façade, twisted columns, and two symmetrical towers. This style sought to demonstrate wealth and grandeur, which is vividly reflected in the building's decor.

19th-20th Centuries: Neoclassicism and Modernisme

The demolition of medieval city walls in the 19th century spurred the expansion of the city and the emergence of new architectural styles. The Principal Theatre (Teatro Principal) was built in the spirit of Neoclassicism in 1847, distinguished by strict symmetry and elegance. The beginning of the 20th century was marked by the arrival of Valencian Modernisme — a local variation of Art Nouveau. A key monument of this style is the Central Market (Mercado Central), opened in 1922. Its façade is adorned with decorative elements and mosaics, while innovative metal structures for that time were used inside.

Modern Era: From Functionalism to Postmodernism

The tourism boom of the 1960s radically changed the look of the coast, leading to the mass construction of multi-storey hotels and residential complexes in the Functionalist style. At the same time, striking examples of Postmodernism appeared in the province of Alicante, such as the famous residential complex "The Red Wall" (La Muralla Roja) in the neighbouring town of Calpe, designed by Ricardo Bofill. Modern Alicante continues to develop, integrating innovative architectural projects into the historical fabric of the city, creating a dynamic and multi-layered urban environment.

Distinguished Personalities in the History of Alicante

Over the centuries, Alicante has been the birthplace and place of activity for many prominent scientists, politicians, writers, and artists whose contributions have left a noticeable mark on the history of Spain and the world.

• Francisco Javier de Balmis (1753–1819)
  Physician and Surgeon
  A native of Alicante who entered world history as the leader of the Royal Philanthropic Vaccine Expedition (1803–1806). This mission delivered the smallpox vaccine to Spanish colonies in the Americas and Asia, saved millions of lives, and became the first international humanitarian project in the field of healthcare in history.
• Jorge Juan y Santacilia (1713–1773)
  Scientist, Mathematician, and Naval Officer
  An outstanding figure of the Enlightenment era, born in the province of Alicante. He participated in the geodesic mission to Peru to measure the meridian arc at the equator, which helped accurately determine the shape of the Earth. His scientific works made a huge contribution to the development of navigation, astronomy, and shipbuilding in Spain.
• Eleuterio Maisonnave y Cutayar (1840–1890)
  Politician and Statesman
  A progressive politician who served as Mayor of Alicante and a minister in the government of the First Spanish Republic. It was under his leadership that the medieval walls of the city were demolished, which kickstarted its large-scale modernisation and expansion in the 19th century.
• Rafael Altamira y Crevea (1866–1951)
  Historian, Jurist, and Writer
  Born in Alicante, Altamira was one of the leading intellectuals of his time. His multi-volume work "History of Spain and Spanish Civilisation" became a classic. He was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize and served as a judge at the Permanent Court of International Justice in The Hague.
• Gabriel Miró (1879–1930)
  Writer
  One of the greatest Spanish Modernist writers, born and raised in Alicante. His works, characterised by a lyrical and detailed style, often celebrate the landscapes and atmosphere of his native region. One of the city's central squares is named after him.
• Oscar Esplá (1886–1976)
  Composer
  An outstanding composer and one of the most important representatives of 20th-century Spanish music. A native of Alicante, he created a unique tonal system based on the musical traditions of the Levant. The main conservatory and the municipal concert hall of the city (Auditorio de la Diputación de Alicante) bear his name.
• Eusebio Sempere (1923–1985)
  Painter and Sculptor
  A key figure of the Spanish avant-garde and one of the pioneers of kinetic art in the country. Although he was born in the neighbouring town of Onil, his life and work are inextricably linked with Alicante. He donated his collection of works to the city, which became the foundation of the Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art (MACA).