A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Alcoy: The City of Bridges and the Birthplace of the Moors and Christians Festival

General Description

Alcoy, also known as Alcoi in Valencian, is a city located in the province of Alicante, in the Valencian Community, Spain. This city, nestled between the mountains of the Sierra de Mariola and the Font Roja, is famous for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. Known as the "City of Bridges", Alcoy has several bridges that cross the Serpis River, the most famous being the San Jorge Bridge, an impressive example of 18th-century architecture.

Tourist Interest

Architecture and History

Alcoy is a city with a rich architectural and historical heritage. The set of modernist buildings in the city center stands out, including the Casa del Pavo, the Industrial Circle, and the Conservatory of Music and Dance. In addition, the city has several museums, such as the Municipal Archaeological Museum Camil Visedo, which houses an important collection of prehistoric and Roman artifacts, and the Alcoyano Museum of the Festival, which offers a detailed view of the famous Moors and Christians Festival.

Moors and Christians Festival

Alcoy is known worldwide for being the birthplace of the Moors and Christians Festival, a celebration that commemorates the battles between Moors and Christians during the Reconquest. This festival, which is celebrated in April, is one of the most spectacular in Spain and has been declared a Festival of International Tourist Interest. During the festival, the city transforms with parades, music, dances, and historical reenactments.

Nature and Hiking

The location of Alcoy, between the mountains of the Sierra de Mariola and the Font Roja, makes it an ideal destination for nature and hiking lovers. Both natural parks offer a wide variety of hiking trails, with stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding region. In addition, the Font Roja is known for its diversity of flora and fauna, including several endemic species.

Surroundings of Alcoy

The surroundings of Alcoy also offer several tourist attractions. A short distance from the city is the medieval village of Bocairent, with its cobblestone streets and cave houses. Also near Alcoy is the city of Xàtiva, famous for its castle and old town. In addition, Alcoy is just an hour's drive from the beaches of the Costa Blanca, making it an excellent starting point for exploring this popular tourist region.

Gastronomic Products of Alcoy

• Olleta Alcoyana

  The Olleta Alcoyana is a traditional dish from Alcoy that is made with a variety of local ingredients. This stew includes white beans, turnips, chard, potatoes, rice, and a variety of meats such as pork, lamb, and blood sausage. It is a hearty and nutritious dish that is especially served during the winter months.

• Christmas Balls

  The Christmas Balls are a festive dish that is served in Alcoy during the Christmas season. These "balls" are actually meatballs made from breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic, and parsley, which are then cooked in a meat broth. This dish is a Christmas tradition in Alcoy and is eagerly awaited by the locals each year.

• Pericana

  The Pericana is a typical tapa from Alcoy that is made with dried peppers, garlic, olive oil, and cod. The ingredients are mixed and served cold, making the Pericana a refreshing and tasty appetizer. It is a very popular dish in Alcoy and can be found in most of the city's bars and restaurants.

• Candied Almonds

  Alcoy is famous for its candied almonds, which are almonds coated with a hard caramel. These almonds are a popular sweet in Alcoy and are usually served during parties and celebrations. They are delicious and very addictive, so it's hard to eat just one.

Sports Activities in Alcoy (Valencia)

Hiking

Alcoy offers stunning hiking routes, such as the Ruta dels Molins, which takes you through ancient water mills, and the Ruta de la Serra de Mariola, where you can enjoy the local flora and fauna.

Mountain Biking

With its mountainous terrain, Alcoy is an ideal place for mountain biking. There are numerous routes for all levels, from easy trails to challenging mountain descents.

Climbing

For adrenaline lovers, Alcoy offers excellent climbing spots. The Barranc del Cint, for example, is a popular climbing spot with routes for all levels.

Swimming

In the summer months, you can enjoy swimming in the municipal pools of Alcoy, or if you prefer nature, you can visit the natural pools in the vicinity of the city.

Places near Alcoy

If you are in Alcoy and wish to explore a bit more, here we present some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Bocairent, a charming medieval village in Spain, offers a rich history, cobblestone streets and ancient caves. It stands out for its local cuisine, with dishes such as "la olleta", a traditional stew, and delicious handmade sausages.

Xativa, a historical gem in Valencia, Spain, is famous for its impressive castle and rich cuisine. Visitors can enjoy local dishes such as "oven-baked rice" and "arnadí", while exploring its charming streets and monuments.