Mount Benacantil facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Benacantil |
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Mount Benacantil with the Castle of Santa Bárbara.
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 169 m (554 ft) |
| Geography | |
 Benacantil
Location in Spain
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| Location | Alicante, Spain |
| Parent range | Sistemas Prebéticos |
| Climbing | |
| First ascent | Bronze Age |
Mount Benacantil is a large hill that stands tall over the city of Alicante in Spain. It's a very famous landmark and a symbol of the city. This mountain is 169 meters (about 554 feet) high.
The name Benacantil likely comes from a mix of Latin and Arabic words. It probably means "Rock of Alicante." This name makes sense because the mountain is a big rocky feature right next to the city.
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What Makes Mount Benacantil Special?
Mount Benacantil is known for a cool rock formation on its side. People call it la cara del moro, which means "the moor's face." If you look closely, you can see a face shape in the rocks!
Nature on the Mountain
The mountain has different types of plants depending on which side you look at.
- The north side is covered with pine trees and bushes.
- The south side, which faces the Mediterranean Sea, is mostly bare rock.
- In between, you'll find bushes and grasses. These plants are tough and can grow well in the dry, sunny Mediterranean climate.
The Castle of Santa Bárbara
At the very top of Mount Benacantil, there is an old fortress called the Castle of Santa Bárbara. This medieval castle has stood there for hundreds of years. It's a very important historical site in Alicante.
Surrounding Areas
Around the base of Mount Benacantil, you'll find several interesting places:
- Ereta Park: A nice park where people can relax and enjoy views.
- Old Neighborhoods: Areas like Santa Cruz, San Roque, San Anton, and Raval Roig are built on the slopes. These neighborhoods have old apartments and a lot of history.
A main road called Avenida Jaime II runs along the northern part of the mountain. There's also a tunnel for the Alicante Tram that goes through the mountain's base.
Images for kids
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Mount Benacantil with the Castle of Santa Bárbara.
