Santa Barbara Castle (Castillo de Santa Bárbara)

The epic 545-foot (166-meter) views from the castle are not only breathtaking, they deepen an understanding of the city’s layout and history of conquest. After exploring the castle and the grounds, relax at the terrace restaurant for paella or strong coffee.

Travelers may enjoy learning more about the illustrious history of the castle during a private walking tour of Alicante, making visits to historic landmarks and architectural gems like Atalaya Castle, San Nicolás Cathedral, Alicante Town Hall, and Basilica Saint Mary, finishing the day with a stroll along the palm-lined Explanada de España. Some tours include a meander through the maze-like Old Town to sample regional specialties and fine local wines.

• Suitable for solo travelers, couples, families; history buffs especially.
• Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection.xa0
• Admission is free.xa0
• Come for the sunsets and on nights when the castle is open late.xa0
• Before taking the elevator up, look up at Mount Benacantil.

A journey through the Castle of Santa Barbara takes travelers from the Bronze Age to the 18th century. Climb to the highest level called La Torreta, to see the oldest sections dating back to the 9th century through the 13th century. Venture into the on-site museum, Museo de la Ciudad de Alicante (MUSA), wherexa0 audiovisual presentations and archaeological finds (like a water tank from the Renaissance period) trace the history of the people of Alicante from prehistory to the present.

Santa Barbara Castle (Castillo de Santa Bárbara) is one of Spain’s largest medieval fortresses. Dating from the 9th century, it features three different enclosures from three different periods. It sits atop Mount Benacantil and overlooks the Alicante plain, the Bay of Alicante, and the city of Alicante.

Santa Barbara Castle (Castillo de Santa Bárbara) has different opening hours depending on the time of year. In fall and winter, it’s open from 10am to 6pm; in spring, 10am to 8pm; and in summer, from 10am to 11pm. The castle is closed on Jun 24, Dec 25 and 31, and January 1 and 6. There is no entrance fee to access the castle.

You can access Santa Barbara Castle (Castillo de Santa Bárbara) by taking a paid elevator to the top of Mt. Benacantil. You can also walk up to the castle via two different 30-minute routes, or take a taxi, bus, minibus, or drive up to the castle.

Yes, guided tours are available for Santa Barbara Castle (Castillo de Santa Bárbara). A 1-hour guided tour is available in English and Spanish several times a day. On weekends, a dramatized tour, plus chocolate, wine, or craft beer tastings, are also available. Book at least one hour ahead of time at the visitor center.

The main attractions at Santa Barbara Castle include a statue of a famous soldier on the lowest level; several halls, the Parade Ground, and the Queen’s Bastion on the middle level; and The Keep on the highest level. To access the Old Dungeon, Cistern, and Hospital, you must take a guided tour.

Yes, Santa Barbara Castle hosts a wide variety of special events and activities throughout the year, such as historical re-enactments, concerts, musical performances, holiday-themed weekends, cultural exhibitions, educational programs, movie screenings, activities for children, and gastronomic experiences. Check the castle’s calendar for the latest schedule of events.