Photo: Joanbanjo, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Two weeks of free amateur theater performances.
© OpenStreetMap contributors
Torre de la Calahorra / Calahorra Tower
Formerly part of the city wall (now no longer extant), this tower was originally Muslim and built from the late 12th to early 13th centuries. Originally a full ten metres higher than now, neglect and an earthquake took their toll and the upper two floors had to be dismantled. From the 15th to 20th centuries it was used as an aristocratic residence and can now be visited.
Basílica de Santa María
The church was built in the late 17th to early 18th centuries in the Spanish Baroque style, on the site of an earlier mosque, and is the venue for the annual Misteri d'Elx. Good views of palm groves and the city of Elche can be had from the top of the church tower, with 170 steps to the top. Inside the tower itself are three rooms, formerly inhabited by the bell-ringer with his family, with photographic displays on the church facade and the Misteri d'Elx.
Misterio de Elche / Mystery Play of Elche
A medieval lyrical work performed annually since the late 15th century. The liturgical drama celebrates the Assumption of Mary, and in 2001 was listed by UNESCO as a 'Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity'. The final performances on 14 and 15 August are free, but due to the enormous popularity it is advisable to get there several hours in advance. On even-numbered years there are extra performances on 29 and 30 October (ticketed) and 1 November (free).
Baños Árabes / Arab Baths
Moorish baths built in the mid-12th century, restored in 1998. An audiovisual presentation is available in English.
Museo del Palmeral
Housed in a 19th-century farmhouse, this museum is devoted to date palms and the fronds used for Palm Sunday rites. Admission includes entry to the nearby palm grove and garden.
Museo Arqueológico y de Historia de Elche (MAHE)
Housed in a refurbished former textile factory, the museum presents artifacts dating from the Neolithic period to the 15th century CE. Part of the exhibition area incorporates a portion of the Alcazar.