Santa Pola

Cities - Villages

The sea has marked the history of Santa Pola. The Iberians built a walled enclosure in the 4th century BC. C., to trade with the Greeks of Phocaea. The Romans strengthened a key Mediterranean port for maritime trade, the Portus Illicitanus, which had all the elements of a city: a fish salting factory, warehouses, the Roman House of the Palm Grove, market, necropolis, etc. From the s. XVI, Castillo-Fortaleza and Torres Vigía protect the population of Barbary pirates. Once expelled in the s. XVIII, definitely established the population center that would take the name of Santa Pola. The festivities of a village reflect the spirit of its people, the popular tradition and the history of the area. The history of Santa Pola is deeply linked to the sea, so its parties revolve around it. These are some interesting parties: March The "MIG ANY" of Moros y Cristianos takes place on the first or second weekend of the month of March, as a prelude to the Moors and Christians Festival that is celebrated half a year later, in September. March April During Holy Week, the streets of the city witness the various processions in charge of the different brotherhoods. On these same dates, a Medieval Market is installed in the courtyard of Castillo-Fortaleza. June On the Sunday closest to June 24, the "Romeria del Cap" takes place in honor of the Virgen del Rosario. July On the 16th the festival is celebrated in honor of the Virgen del Carmen, through masses, offering to the deceased sailors, procession and fireworks. September From August 31 to September 8 the festivities of Moors and Christians and Patron Saint Festivities are celebrated in honor of the Virgin of Loreto, with disembarkation, embassies, conquest and reconquest of Moors and Christians, parades, fireworks, floral offering to the patron saint , procession, children's games and sports competitions. December On the 10th the Coming of the Virgin of Loreto to Santa Pola is commemorated, with a small procession from the port to her chapel. According to legend, in 1643, a fishing boat bound for another port was forced to land in Santa Pola because of a severe storm; On the ship, an image of the Virgin of Loreto traveled as a passenger. When the storm subsided, the ship went to sea and had to return to port twice more before being able to leave, so the crew and authorities understood that the Virgin of Loreto wished to stay in Santa Pola. Christmas parties From December 21 to January 5, activities for children and young people are organized in the Plaza de la Glorieta. On December 31, the year is received at the rhythm of the chimes from the Castle. These festivities end on January 5 with the traditional Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos (Three Wise Men Parade).