Benidorm – the jewel of Spain’s Costa Blanca coastline – is a stunning example of how a quiet fishing village can become one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations. The town’s amazing development, from its medieval castle through pirate attacks to modern skyscrapers, is worth exploring as an exciting historical journey.
The beginnings: from ancient times to the Middle Ages
The history of Benidorm dates back to 3000 BC, with traces of Roman and Punic settlements also found. However, significant development began during the Arab rule and continued with the Christian reconquest in the 13th century. In 1325, Admiral Bernat de Sarrià granted the settlement city status, and it was built as a strategic defensive point on the Punta Canfali cape, where Benidorm’s first castle also stood. Although the construction of the castle was fraught with difficulties, it was eventually completed, protecting the city from sea attacks.
Pirates and depopulation
In the 14th-16th centuries, Benidorm was frequently attacked by pirates. In 1388, an attack by African pirates practically emptied the town, with its inhabitants fleeing to nearby Polop. Over the centuries, the town became almost uninhabited, and by 1503, only 6-7 people remained to guard the castle. After the Germanic uprising, Benidorm became even more deserted.
Rebirth: new life with water
In 1666, the noblewoman Beatriz Fajardo de Mendoza brought about a significant change in the life of Benidorm. She had the Séquia Mare canal system built, which enabled the growth of agriculture and the population. Beatriz refounded Benidorm, declaring it an independent settlement and granting land and water rights to the new inhabitants. The town grew slowly and by the end of the 18th century had more than a thousand inhabitants.
The golden age of fishing
In the 18th century, Benidorm flourished thanks to fishing, particularly tuna fishing, which was carried out using the ancient almadraba technique dating back to Arab times. It was during this period that the symbol of the old town, the parish church of St. James and St. Anne, was built in honor of the miraculously saved statue of the Virgin Mary. With its distinctive blue dome, the church remains a symbol of the old town to this day.
arraez.html
The destruction of the castle and the birth of the Mediterranean Balcony
The medieval castle was finally abandoned during the Napoleonic Wars and demolished in 1812. In 1928, the Mediterranean Balcony (Plaza del Castillo) viewing terrace was built on the site of the former castle at Punta Canfali, which is now one of Benidorm’s most famous attractions.
The era of tourism: bikinis and skyscrapers
By the middle of the 20th century, Benidorm had been transformed once again. In 1952, Mayor Pedro Zaragoza allowed bikinis to be worn on the beaches, which brought enormous international attention to the city. Zaragoza planned the city’s future with skyscrapers, turning Benidorm into the “Mediterranean Manhattan.” With imaginative advertising campaigns and the Benidorm Music Festival, the city gained international fame.
Benidorm today: a smart city by the sea
Today, Benidorm welcomes millions of tourists every year. The city has more than 300 skyscrapers, including Spain’s tallest hotel, the Gran Hotel Bali, and the iconic Intempo Tower. Benidorm has also been named the world’s first Smart Tourist Destination, thanks to its sustainability and technological developments.
In addition to tourists, the city’s leadership now focuses on quality tourism, smart city solutions, and environmental protection. Benidorm remains one of the most popular Mediterranean vacation destinations due to its unique atmosphere, lively nightlife, and rich history.
Discover Benidorm, where the past and present meet in spectacular fashion!
