Things to see in the old town of Benissa

Not long ago, we shared with you the best coves in the town to help you enjoy nature and a swim in its waters. Today, on the contrary, we take you to land to show you what you cannot miss in the old town of Benissa, a town with a rich history. Want to discover it?

Discover the old town of Benissa:

First of all, let us set the scene. Despite being a settlement site in the prehistory, as well as during the Roman era, the municipality emerged under the influence of a Berber family, the Banu-Isa, from whom the town's name is derived. They settled in the area as an alquería, meaning an agricultural settlement.

In the 13th century, under the Crown of Aragon, efforts were made to colonize predominantly Muslim regions through the settlement of Cristian populations, and this happened in Benissa. However, the Muslim inhabitants were eventually expelled in the 17th century, leaving only Christians, who adapted the area to their tastes and constructions. This final phase of the town's history is most reflected in the buildings of the old town of Benissa. Let’s get to know them!

1. The Cathedral of the Marina

We couldn’t start anywhere else but with the most important monument of Benissa. The well-known Cathedral of the Marina is named so because it is the largest church in the Marina Alta region.

In fact, the Church of the Puríssima Xiqueta is a structure that began construction in 1902 and was finished in 1929, with Neo-Gothic style, featuring two bell towers and a beautiful rose window. The building, with classical construction consisting of three naves and a central cupola in the crossing, stands out for its beautiful reliquary holding the image of the Puríssima Xiqueta. An unmissable visit!

2. Sala del Consell

This Renaissance-style building, dating from the 16th century, was used as an Almudí, a space for storage and sale of cereals, although its function changed over the years. It became a town hall, which at the time was not as we know it today. Back then, its walls not only stored the city’s archives but also housed the administrative offices and even the prison! Later, it became a school and today functions as a center for interpretation, helping you discover more secrets of Benissa.

3. Cases del Batlle

Cases del Batlle. Naturally, if the Sala del Consell was the town hall, the mayor had to live nearby, and this was his home.

This building is significant not just for that reason but also because it now hosts the municipal library and Espai d’Art Contemporani Salvador Sori, where various artworks are exhibited, including those from the painting contest held in Benissa.

4. Calle Desamparats

This is one of the most beautiful streets you can walk through in the town, and there is another point of interest where you can stop, the Casa Abargues. This is a noble house from the 18th-19th centuries, so you can imagine its noble style, with large halls, sturdy walls, and even a chapel — quite a spectacle!

5. Monument to the Riberer

To truly understand Benissa’s history, you must visit the Monument to the Riberer. For years, the residents of the town had to travel to La Ribera in Valencia to harvest rice and earn income. They did this on foot, so not only does one have to consider the effort of working, but also walking long distances with the aim of allowing Benissa's families to prosper. Definitely, this monument is a beautiful tribute to the inhabitants of the area.

Doesn’t that seem incredible? If you visit Benissa, besides enjoying its monuments, you can sample a good rice dish at one of the local restaurants, shop at shops where you will find typical products, and of course, enjoy the friendliness of the people.

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