The Castle of Santa Pola is located in the city center and is one of the most important buildings for the history of this town and the region: it served as a defensive element for the Alicante coast, protecting its people and lands from the frequent pirate attacks in the 16th century. Today, this old fortress houses the Museum of the Sea and is one of the most visited monuments in Santa Pola.
In this article we’ll tell you everything about the Castle of Santa Pola, so you can learn more about its history and architecture and also plan your next visit to the Alicante coast with this place in mind. Keep reading and discover why it’s worth visiting this fantastic fortress turned museum.
History and origin of the fortress
The origin of the Castle of Santa Pola dates back to the mid-16th century, by order of Bernardino de Cárdenas, viceroy of Valencia. The objective was to protect the region’s coast against pirate and corsair attacks. The location was then the old Port del Cap de L’Aljub, which contained a settlement and another medieval defense tower. We know that in its time it housed a group of soldiers, responsible for ensuring the security of the place.
Over the years it has served various functions, until it was acquired by the Santa Pola Town Council in the 19th century. Little by little, it was recovered and rehabilitated until it became the cultural space it is today, a meeting point in the center of the town.
16th-century military architecture
When you see the Castle of Santa Pola, you’ll realize it doesn’t bear much resemblance to the medieval castles found in much of our country. It’s a fortification with a very specific defensive purpose, with a square floor plan, two towers and two bastions, and solid walls that give it an impenetrable appearance.
To find more interesting details you have to look carefully: this way you’ll discover gun ports, the cistern and a very famous parade ground. This was the core of the fortress and concentrated most of the activity. Around it were the quarters of the soldiers and their families. Visiting the Castle of Santa Pola allows you to better understand how military architecture of the Renaissance era worked and was designed, as well as how people defended themselves from external attacks.
What to see at the Museum of the Sea
Visiting the Museum of the Sea at the Castle of Santa Pola allows you to learn a lot about the history and culture of the region.
History and Archaeology
This is where you can learn about the history of the municipality, from prehistoric times to today, and about the Castle of Santa Pola and its importance. You’ll also learn about the Roman era and the relevance of this area, even before the construction of the castle.
Ethnography of the sea and fishing
Santa Pola and the Mediterranean have an umbilical relationship, and the section dedicated to the sea and fishing offers a broad overview of how the city grew thanks to this bond. You’ll learn about the evolution from its origins to the present day.
Music and local traditions
Yes, the Museum of the Sea also has an area dedicated to music. There are 3 rooms dedicated to maestros Quislant and Alfosea, as well as to different musical groups from the region, such as Unió Musical, La Colla El Freu, Mare de Déu de Loreto and Coral Levantina, among others.
Opening hours and how to plan your visit
If you want to visit the Castle of Santa Pola, we’ll help you with all the useful information you need:
- The Castle of Santa Pola is located in Plaza de la Glorieta, and the main headquarters of the Museum of the Sea is on Sacramento Street, number 11.
- Admission to the Museum of the Sea is free and its opening hours are Tuesday to Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. On Sundays it’s open from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM. Mondays are rest days.
- Guided tours are possible, upon prior request by phone.
- We suggest combining your visit to the castle with a walk around the port and the center, which are a short distance from each other. This way you’ll get an overview of Santa Pola.
Visit the Castle of Santa Pola and discover its history
The Alicante coast has many places of interest to visit; the Castle of Santa Pola is, without a doubt, one of them. It’s a building that attracts visitors: its simple exterior walls remind us of its original function and its centuries of history, and the visit to the Museum of the Sea, located inside the castle, offers us a very interesting view of the historical and cultural heritage of the region. Best of all is that the Castle of Santa Pola is perfectly integrated into the city center, so you can take the opportunity to discover everything this town offers, such as its beaches and Alicante cuisine.
Do you already know where you’re going to stay on your next visit to Alicante? At Fidalsa Holidays we have the best selection of accommodations in this region, including Santa Pola: from fantastic apartments with sea views to luxury villas with pools. Choose the best option for you and yours, book online without complications and get ready for an unforgettable experience. We’re waiting for you!