History of Santa Pola, Alicante
- Fact: The town was called Portus Illicitanus in Roman Times.
- Travel tip: Head to Plaza del Calvario for a panoramic view of the bay and promenade.
Ports and Pirates – a quick guide to Santa Pola’s past
Since ancient times Santa Pola has had a thriving port. This has grown and developed, providing excellent berthing facilities for sport and fishing boats and the harbour is still a centre of activity today.
One of the most unique features of the town are the ruins and old buildings that mark a long and ancient history.
Santa Pola was the main port of Elche in Roman times; the history of life in that period is displayed in the archaeological remains located in Ensanche de Poniente.
Evidence of the port’s importance as a centre of the fishing trade is the remains of an ancient salted fish factory from the 4th century B.C. There are also clear relics of a grand country house with courtyard, also from the 4th century, in Casa del Palmeral.
Out to sea, you won’t be able to miss the dramatic ruins of the town’s watchtowers, built to fend off pirate attacks that nearly destroyed the town at one time.
The Castle-Fortress in the town centre was built by order of Phillip ll to protect the town from pirate plunders. This is now an impressive centre of culture, housing Sea and Fishing Museums, the Municipal Exhibition Hall and the Virgen de Loreto Chapel.
Discover more about property in Santa Pola.
