Altea Facts for Kids

For other uses, see Altea (disambiguation).

Quick facts for kids

Altea

Flag	Coat of arms

Altea

Location in Province of Alicante

Altea

Location in Valencian Community

Altea

Location in Spain

Spain

Comarca

Marina Baixa

Area

• Total

34.43 km² (13.29 sq mi)

Elevation

61 m (200 ft)

Population

(2018)

• Total

21,995

• Density

638.83/km² (1,654.57/sq mi)

Demonym(s)

Alteà / Alteano

Time zone

UTC+1 (CET)

• Summer (DST)

UTC+2 (CEST)

Postal code

03590

Official language(s)

Spanish and Valencian

Altea is a beautiful city and municipality in Spain. It is located on the sunny Mediterranean coast, which is part of the Costa Blanca.

Many people love to visit Altea, and tourism is a big part of its economy. This started in the 1950s because of its great weather and lovely beaches. The town is also famous for its winding streets and white houses. Altea is protected by the Serra de Bèrnia mountains to the north. This gives it a very mild and pleasant climate. You can also enjoy a walk along its seafront, which is lined with palm trees.

History of Altea
What to See in Altea
Education in Altea
Fun Festivals in Altea
Twin Towns – Sister Cities
Images for kids
See also

History of Altea

Long ago, people called the Iberians lived near the Algar river in Altea Bay. Later, the ancient Greeks set up a trading place here, which they named Althaia.

During the time of Moorish rule, the land around Altea was part of the Taifa of Dénia. This changed in 1244 when James I of Aragon recaptured it for the Christians. The town was then quickly made stronger with walls. These walls protected what is now known as the "old town."

What to See in Altea

One of the best parts of Altea is its old town. It has a maze of narrow, winding streets made of cobblestones. As you walk, you can catch glimpses of the beautiful bay.

A famous sight is the church of La Mare de Déu del Consol. You can easily spot it by its unique blue and white domes. These domes are covered with shiny glazed tiles. Near the church, you'll find many charming restaurants. Some of them offer amazing views of the Mediterranean Sea. If you visit by car, you'll need to park a few blocks away. The streets right around the church are often too narrow or have stairs, so cars cannot pass.

Education in Altea

Altea is home to a campus of the Universidad Miguel Hernández. This university has a special faculty dedicated to Fine Arts. Students can study different forms of art here.

Fun Festivals in Altea

Altea is known for its exciting festivals. These events bring the community together and attract many visitors.

Castell de l'Olla

The Castell de l'Olla is Altea's most famous festival. It's a spectacular fireworks show launched from the sea. The fireworks light up the sky over l'Olla beach. This creates an amazing mix of light, gunpowder, and music. In the local Valencian language, a fireworks display like this is called a Castell.

The festival happens on the Saturday closest to August 10th, which is St. Lawrence's Day. The show often ends with a special "golden palm tree" firework. This event started to honor a local fireworks expert named Blas Aznar. More than 50,000 people come each year to watch. Some sit on the beach, while others rent boats for a better view.

Moros y Cristianos

Every year, many Spanish cities celebrate the "Moors and Christians" festival. This event remembers the 500 years of Muslim rule in Spain. It also celebrates when the Christians took back the land in the 15th century. The festival lasts several days. It shows the story of the city falling to the Moors and then being won back.

On the fourth weekend in September, the festival starts with bells and cannon fire. People in the town divide into two groups: Moors and Christians. They act out battles in the old town and on the beach. Besides the battles, there are parades with amazing costumes. The costumes are inspired by medieval times. The Christians ride horses and wear furs, helmets, and armor. The Moors ride camels or elephants and wear ancient Arab clothes.

Pascua

Pascua is the Spanish word for Easter. During Holy Week, the people of Altea have serious and dramatic processions. Before Easter, there is also a carnival. This carnival is a traditional way to have fun before the start of Lent.

Sant Antoni del Porquet

During Lent, Altea has a special festival for pork. Pork is very important in Spanish cuisine. You can find traditional hams and roasted pigs in many meals. This festival takes place in mid-February. It includes a parade through the old town. Afterward, everyone shares a meal of rice, sings folk songs, and dances. The celebration ends with tasting roasted pig.

Encontes

The Encontes festival celebrates the old art of storytelling. It takes place from May 15th to 20th. Many events are organized to entertain visitors with stories and songs. This festival is for everyone, no matter their age.

Twin Towns – Sister Cities

Altea is a founding member of the Douzelage. This is a special group of 24 towns across the European Union that are twinned together. This active partnership started in 1991. They hold regular events, like markets with products from each country and various festivals.