Calpe is near Alicante on the Costa Blanca. It is a town of two halves. We stayed in a hotel on the seafront which as one would expect in a holiday resort, has a selection of bars, restaurants and shops. In contrast, Calpe Old town is quaint, charming, authentic and unspoiled. These red painted steps act as a gateway between the new and the old.
Ian and I spent a morning looking around the old town. There’s a perimeter wall, built to defend the town against pirate attacks and a maze of narrow cobbled streets punctuated with decorated steps, painted murals and window boxes full of flowers.
The Museo del Coleccionismo (below) houses temporary public and private collections.
And there’s a beautiful church located in the town square, Iglesia parroquial de nuestra Señora de las Nieves. It’s modern with a traditional chapel. I often go into churches when I’m abroad. My Catholic upbringing, the chance to light a candle, and the peace draw me in. This one was very welcoming. A lady at the door encouraged us to take a look round and there was an organist sitting and playing. It was tranquil, cool and uplifting and a welcome break from the searing midday heat.
There’s a gorgeous market every Saturday in Calpe Old Town. It was mainly fruit and veg but there were a few clothes and leather goods too. It was good to see more locals than tourists shopping there, something which is always the sign of an authentic market.
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4 comments
Looks delightful Lizzy, I do love visiting old cities in Spain. Our favourite is L’Escala near Gerona, we holidayed there when the children were young and travel back there for long weekends with friends. Enjoy your weekend. x Jacqui Mummabstylish
Oh I’ll look that up Jacqui. Ian and I are always on the look out for new places to visit xxx
Such a colourful old town. I imagine you would lose yourself just wondering around. Thanks for sharing these gorgeouse images Liz xx
You’re right. It was like another little world. So pretty and quaint xxx