Dating from the ninth century and Moorish in origin, the Castillo de Santa Bárbara is the most emblematic construction in Alicante. Located on the summit of Mount Benacantil at 166m (544ft) above sea level, the castle is built in several fortified levels.
From the Castillo de Santo Barbara on the hill of Mount Benacantil are spectacular views over the city of Alicante. The name is derived from the feast day of Santa Barbara in 1248 when Prince Alfonso of Castile took the hill from the Moors. Most of the present castle dates from the 16th Century. The lower part houses a contemporary sculpture exhibition. The fortress can be accessed by a lift in the rock from near El Postiguet beach.