Greetings, I’m Rebecca, and I’m delighted to share our recent excursion to Santa Bárbara Castle in Alicante. This historic site is more than just a castle; it’s a treasure trove of fascinating facts and breathtaking views for all ages to enjoy.
Arrival and Parking – or lift!
Our journey commenced with a picturesque drive to Santa Bárbara Castle. We were able to get a space in the small car park half way up the hill, making it accessible to walk with a pushchair (albeit a very steep walk). Alternatively, you can take a lift up to the castle from the town for a small fee, and it’s worth noting that a lift like this is unique to this castle! Something you’ll not experience elsewhere. We were told that the council installed it in quite recent years to encourage tourism to the castle and make it accessible to everyone. It is literally excavated from the rock – amazing! (It is also free to come back down in the lift).
Santa Bárbara Castle: A Living Chronicle
Let’s begin with the name – Santa Bárbara Castle, or “Castillo de Santa Bárbara” in Spanish. It’s a towering fortress that stands as a symbol of Alicante’s rich history. What’s truly remarkable is that entry to this historical site is completely free. This is a fantastic opportunity for budget-conscious travellers and history enthusiasts alike.
Family-Friendly Accessibility
While most parts of the castle are manageable with a pushchair, it’s worth noting that some areas can be quite steep and covered in cobblestones. Martin was in charge of the pushchair and he managed it with some effort. After a while, we did decide to switch to a carrier for our youngest explorer, allowing us to navigate even the trickiest terrain and climb some steps. During our visit we saw another family using a wagon.
Make sure you hold hands with younger visitors, there are quite a few hazards we spotted, but perfectly safe when our kids had their sensible heads on! It’s worth taking them to see the fantastic views from the top of the castle, and they can pose with the various metal sculptures along the way.
Exclusive Guided Tour and the Aljibe Cistern
Now, onto one of the highlights of our visit – the guided tour, available in both English and Spanish. The guides at Santa Bárbara Castle are not only knowledgeable but also incredibly welcoming, especially towards children. Our guide was brilliant with the kids, they were his little helpers and he kindly answered all of their questions.
The tour also offers exclusive access to parts of the castle that are typically off-limits, which made it even more exciting for the kids. One unforgettable moment was our visit to the “aljibe,” the castle’s water cistern. The acoustics in this space create a unique auditory experience, where our guide’s voice seemed to be enveloped in a musical aura due to the echoing effect. It’s a one-of-a-kind sensation you won’t easily forget.
Extra Castle Insights
Santa Bárbara Castle is not only an architectural marvel but also a historical goldmine. It has a history dating back over a thousand years, with traces of Iberian, Roman, and Moorish influences. The castle was named after the tradition of celebrating the feast of Saint Barbara on December 4th. This history adds depth to the castle’s significance.
Don’t forget to take a look at the floor by the picnic benches. You will see graffiti as names etched into the stone. These are from the dungeon which held 50 prisoners during the Spanish Civil War; prisoners took turns using a nail to leave their names. One more thing our kids always love to find in castles – the toilets! See if you can spot them, but don’t get too close; it’s a long way down!
Family-Friendly Amenities
For families, convenience is key. Santa Bárbara Castle offers two cafes where you can purchase refreshments and ice creams – perfect for keeping everyone refreshed and cool, especially on a warm Spanish day. The prices are very fair too, unlike some touristy places!Additionally, there’s a restaurant on-site where you can indulge in delectable Spanish cuisine while enjoying the awe-inspiring views of Alicante.
A Day Well Spent
Our family dedicated an entire afternoon to exploring Santa Bárbara Castle, and we could have easily spent even more time, particularly if we had decided to dine at the restaurant. This castle isn’t just a historical site; it’s a captivating journey through time with panoramic views that will leave you in awe.
Make sure to include Santa Bárbara Castle in your Alicante itinerary. It’s a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone.
Safe travels, and may your visit to Santa Bárbara Castle be as enchanting as ours!
