Santa Barbara Castle in Alicante: history, views, how to get there

Santa Barbara Castle (Castillo de Santa Bárbara) is the symbol of Alicante and one of the most important viewpoints on the Costa Blanca. It stands on top of Mount Benacantil, has over 1,000 years of history and is one of the best-preserved defensive castles on Spain's east coast. From its walls you can see the Mediterranean, white beaches, the marina and the whole built-up area of the city.

The place combines history, architecture and a Mediterranean atmosphere.

What is the history of Santa Barbara Castle?

The origins of the castle go back to Arab times, when it was a strategic point controlling the whole coast. The key dates:

9th century – the first fortifications under Moorish rule,
13th century – the castle is captured on the feast day of Saint Barbara, hence its present name,
16th century – expansion of the defensive walls under Philip II,
20th century – gradual restoration and conversion of the castle into a tourist attraction.

What can you see from Santa Barbara Castle?

The view from Mount Benacantil is the main reason tourists come back here several times during one trip. From the castle you will see:

Playa del Postiguet – one of the most beautiful city beaches,
a harbour and an elegant marina,
the whole centre of Alicante,
a mountain range on the horizon,
extensive villa developments and apartment blocks along the coast.

The castle is worth visiting at any time of day, but sunsets are the most special.

How do you get to Santa Barbara Castle?

There are three ways to get to the castle:

By lift from the Postiguet beach side – a quick and convenient ride up, the route runs through the inside of the rock.
On foot – an option for those who like short hikes, with views along the way.
By car or taxi – the most convenient option for older people, families with children and those who want to use the car park right at the castle.

What is there to see within the castle grounds?

Many elements of the fortifications have survived within the castle grounds:

watchtowers,
courtyards and defensive walls,
former storerooms and prisons,
a 360° viewpoint,
a small museum presenting the history of Alicante.

In summer the castle often hosts open-air events: concerts, exhibitions, art shows and local festivals.

Despite its military past, the castle is today one of the most atmospheric places in the city, good for a quiet morning as well as a romantic evening. At the top there are:

small cafés,
seating in the shade,
space for taking photos,
walking routes around the walls.

Why visit the castle before buying a property in Alicante?

From the viewing terrace you can see the whole city in a single frame. This makes it easy to assess:

how close the beaches are,
where the residential developments are,
how the city is laid out,
what infrastructure Alicante offers,
which parts of the city might suit your lifestyle.

Property buyers often say that it was only after visiting the castle that they "felt" Alicante.

Is Alicante a good place to live?

Alicante is one of the most pleasant cities to live in on the Costa Blanca, combining a holiday feel with urban convenience. It offers:

a unique climate (over 300 days of sunshine),
beautiful beaches right in the centre,
excellent infrastructure,
a rich culture and history,
excellent transport links (airport, trams, trains),
a dynamically developing property market.

Examples of new properties in Alicante and the surrounding area (prices do not include VAT):

Apartment in Alicante – from 124.6 m², 2 rooms, 2 bathrooms, communal pool, balcony/terrace, close to the sea, parking; from 335000 €
House in Alicante – from 130.00 m², 3 rooms, 2 bathrooms, communal pool, balcony/terrace, parking, garden; from 355000 €
House in Alicante – from 196.92 m², 4 rooms, 3 bathrooms, air conditioning, communal pool, balcony/terrace, close to the sea; from 535000 €
Apartment in Alicante – from 101.55 m², 3 rooms, 2 bathrooms, sea view, air conditioning, communal pool, balcony/terrace; from 281000 €
Apartment close to the sea – from 89.25 m², 2 rooms, 2 bathrooms, sea view, air conditioning, communal pool, balcony/terrace; from 505000 €

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Santa Barbara Castle?

The castle stands on top of Mount Benacantil in Alicante and towers over the city, Postiguet beach and the harbour.

Where does the castle's name come from?

The castle was captured in the 13th century on the feast day of Saint Barbara, and its present name comes from that event.

What is the most convenient way to get to the castle?

Fastest by lift from the Postiguet beach side, which runs through the inside of the rock. You can also walk up or get there by car or taxi to the car park below the castle.

What can you see within the castle grounds?

Watchtowers, courtyards, defensive walls, former storerooms and prisons, a 360° viewpoint and a small museum of the history of Alicante.

When is the best time to visit the castle?

The castle is attractive at any time of day, but sunsets are the most special. In summer it also hosts concerts, exhibitions and local festivals.

Aria Spain, a licensed agency with an office in the province of Alicante (RAICV no. 4123), helps you choose a location and a new property from a developer on the Costa Blanca, including in Alicante – the buyer pays no commission. Write to hello@ariaspain.com or book a free consultation.