It is usually held in July. During this week Alicante fills up with artistic and cultural activities. The last day a manifesto is read in Plaza Mayor del Ayuntamiento where afterwards music is played and people drink and dance.
Castillo de Santa Bárbara / Castle of Santa Barbara
On top of Mount Benacantil at a height of 166 metres, there is one of the largest medieval fortresses in Spain, built in the ninth century by Muslims. An amazing view of town and harbour. If you feel fit, the walk from Plaza de Carmen is a sight in itself, through some narrow winding streets. The castle can also be reached by car, but parking slots are scarce.
MUSA / Museo de la Ciudad / Museum of the City of Alicante
Showcases archaeological finds from the city and the region.
Basilica of Santa María
Begun during the 14th century on top of the remains of an old Moorish mosque, construction was completed in the 16th century, and incorporates Gothic and Baroque stylistic elements in its structure. The main entrance to the church is especially notable for its elaborate Baroque decorative elements; inside the Gothic choir and Rococo altar are noteworthy, along with the Baroque organ from 1653. The exterior still bears traces of bombardment by French forces in the 18th century.
El Tossal de Manises
This site, which covers over 7 acres, is the location of the original Roman city which later became Alicante. Although excavation is ongoing, it is open to visitors. Notable features are remains of the defensive walls, Roman baths, and forum, as well as part of the old Muslim cemetery.
Castillo de San Fernando / Castle of San Fernando
Built at the beginning of the 19th century, the fortress is now the centrepiece of a city park.
MARQ / Museo Arqueológico de Alicante / Archaeological Museum of Alicante
Founded in 1932, it was originally located in the ground floor of the Diputación Palace, and in 2000 it moved to its current location, the former Provincial Hospital building. The museum has an avant-garde design and uses modern audiovisual techniques, with more than 80,000 pieces found in local archaeological sites. It also shows educational movies about the history of Alicante area from the Stone Age, through Iberian and Roman eras, to the Middle Ages.