Elche: A Gem of the Costa Blanca
Elche (Spanish: Elche, Valencian: Elx) is a vibrant city located approximately 20 km southwest of Alicante. As the capital of the Bajo-Vinalopó comarca, it stands as the second-largest city in the province of Alicante and the third-largest in the Valencian Community. Celebrated for its industrial prowess, Elche also attracts numerous tourists to the southern Costa Blanca, particularly to the coastal village of Los Arenales del Sol, known for its stunning sandy beaches.
Cultural Significance
Although Elche is situated about 15 km from the coast, it boasts significant cultural heritage. Three of its landmarks are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the expansive palm grove in the northern part of the city, the “Lady of Elche”—a renowned Iberian sculpture—and the annual religious mystery play performed at the Basilica of St. Mary.
Location and Access
Elche is conveniently accessible via various transportation hubs, with the following distances to key locations:
Elche-Alicante International Airport: 16 km
Murcia International Airport: 81 km
Valencia International Airport: 180 km
Railway station to Alicante city center: 25 km
Torrevieja: 37 km
Orihuela: 35 km
Guardamar del Segura: 25 km
Los Arenales del Sol: 20 km
Santa Pola: 18 km
The city is well-connected through an extensive network of highways, freeways, and secondary roads, alongside two railway stations and a bus station, facilitating easy travel to surrounding communities.
Climate
Elche enjoys a favorable Mediterranean climate characterized by abundant sunshine, minimal rainfall, and average annual temperatures ranging from 17 to 19 degrees Celsius. The city experiences pleasant weather year-round, although January and February can see daytime temperatures dip below 10 degrees Celsius. Most of winter and early spring remain mild, with temperatures frequently exceeding 15 degrees Celsius.
Summer in Elche is divided into two phases: from mid-July to mid-September, temperatures often soar above 30 degrees Celsius, while the period from late September to mid-November is known as the “velvet season,” offering more moderate temperatures. The best times for beach activities are June, early July, late September, and October, with the bathing season extending from April to November. Overall, Elche’s climate supports year-round living and tourism, making it an attractive destination.
Historical Heritage
Elche boasts a rich history spanning over 2,500 years, beginning with an Iberian settlement in the 5th century B.C. During the Roman Empire, it thrived as a colony for veterans of the Cantabrian Wars. The city reached its zenith during the Muslim period, benefiting from agricultural advancements and a sophisticated irrigation system.
Following the Reconquista in the mid-13th century, Elche became part of the Crown of Aragon and later joined the Kingdom of Valencia in the early 14th century. Officially recognized as a city in the late 19th century, Elche experienced significant economic growth during the 1960s and 70s.
Elche is famously known as Spain’s shoe capital, home to hundreds of shoe factories, including well-known brands such as Pikolinos, Nordikas, and Panama Jack. It is also the birthplace of the espadrille (alpargata), a lightweight summer shoe originally designed for agricultural workers but now celebrated for its style and comfort.
Architectural Marvels
The Basílica de Santa María is a stunning architectural landmark and a testament to Elche’s historical richness. Built in the 17th and 18th centuries, it stands on the site of the first Christian church, which replaced a Muslim mosque. The basilica showcases Spanish Baroque architecture and is recognized as a historical monument. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Elche from its bell tower. The basilica is also the venue for the centuries-old Misterio de Elche, a religious celebration held on August 14 and 15, featuring a choral performance in Old Spanish that narrates the life of the Virgin Mary.
Other notable architectural sites in Elche include the Torre de Calahorra, a watchtower from the 12th-13th century, the Torre de Consell from the 15th century, and the Castillo-palacio de Altamira (also known as the Alcázar de la Señoría), which houses the Museo Arqueológico y de Historia de Elche, showcasing the city’s rich historical and archaeological heritage.
Elche Museums
Elche is not just rich in history but also boasts a variety of intriguing museums that reflect its cultural heritage. Here are some highlights:
Arab Baths (Baños Árabes): Nestled beneath the Convento de Santa Llúcia, these 12th-century baths are a fascinating remnant of Elche’s Arab past.
Museum of Contemporary Art (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Elche): This museum showcases an impressive collection of works by prominent Spanish artists from the 20th century, offering a glimpse into the country’s modern artistic landscape.
Ethnographic Museum (Centro de Cultura Tradicional Museo Escolar de Puzol): Recognized by UNESCO, this museum focuses on the local culture, traditions, and customs of the region, providing insight into the daily lives of its residents throughout history.
Alcudia Museum (Museo de la Alcudia): Situated on the site of an ancient Iberian settlement, this museum highlights the significance of the “Dama de Elche” (Lady of Elche), a remarkable Iberian sculpture now housed in the National Archaeological Museum in Madrid. There are ongoing efforts to bring the statue back to Elche.
Elche Parks
Elche is not just rich in history but also boasts a variety of intriguing museums that reflect its cultural heritage. Here are some highlights:
Arab Baths (Baños Árabes): Nestled beneath the Convento de Santa Llúcia, these 12th-century baths are a fascinating remnant of Elche’s Arab past.
Museum of Contemporary Art (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Elche): This museum showcases an impressive collection of works by prominent Spanish artists from the 20th century, offering a glimpse into the country’s modern artistic landscape.
Ethnographic Museum (Centro de Cultura Tradicional Museo Escolar de Puzol): Recognized by UNESCO, this museum focuses on the local culture, traditions, and customs of the region, providing insight into the daily lives of its residents throughout history.
Alcudia Museum (Museo de la Alcudia): Situated on the site of an ancient Iberian settlement, this museum highlights the significance of the “Dama de Elche” (Lady of Elche), a remarkable Iberian sculpture now housed in the National Archaeological Museum in Madrid. There are ongoing efforts to bring the statue back to Elche.
Beaches of Elche
Elche’s coastline, located near the village of Los Arenales del Sol, offers three beautiful beaches:
L’Altet Beach: Renowned for its unique ecosystem of sand dunes, this 2-kilometer beach is awarded the prestigious Blue Flag for its cleanliness and quality. It provides a range of amenities, including parking, water fountains, wooden walkways, a beach bar, a volleyball court, and lifeguard services. A regular bus service connects L’Altet to Elche and Alicante.
Els Arenales del Sol Beach: This 3-kilometer stretch features fine white sand and a gentle entrance to the sea, making it ideal for families and those seeking quieter spots during peak seasons. The beach is well-equipped with restaurants, bars, shops, and parking facilities.
El Carabassí Beach: This stunning beach runs alongside sand dunes and includes a designated nudist area. Amenities such as ample parking, sunbed and umbrella rentals, foot showers, and beach bars ensure a pleasant visit.
Real Estate in Elche
Elche is a dynamic city with rapidly developing suburbs, offering a diverse array of real estate options. From cozy studios and apartments to luxurious villas and expansive country estates, there’s something for everyone. As of January 2024, the average price per square meter for housing in the province of Alicante was €2,077, while in Elche, it stood at €1,272. Over the past year, property prices in Elche have increased by 10.9%, and this gap is expected to narrow in the coming years. The most sought-after urban areas include Valverde, Alzabares, and La Galia Bonavista.
Smaller apartments in older buildings start around €31,000.
Newer apartments in buildings with elevators begin at €70,000.
Bungalows and townhouses are available from €90,000, while small country homes with land start at €100,000.
Modern cottages with plots and swimming pools begin at €500,000, and villas start from €850,000.
Elche is also experiencing a surge in new construction projects, primarily focused on apartment complexes. Prices for these new two-bedroom apartments start at €135,000, while three-bedroom apartments begin at €155
