The Basilica of Santa María is the oldest religious building in the city of Alicante, dating from the 14th century. It was built on the remains of the largest Islamic mosque in Alicante. After a fire during the 15th century, the Basilica of Santa Maria was rebuilt. For this reason, the façade is Baroque and is crowned by two asymmetrical towers built in the 14th and 18th centuries, respectively.
It served as Alicante's Catholic community's center for many centuries. At the moment, the church gathers guests all through the year. These guests include individuals who go to daily Mass or on Sundays and tourists who go there to admire the church's architecture, which is reflected in the church's cavernous nave.
What to see in Basilica Santa Maria?
- In this magnificent religious building, the main gate stands out with an image of the Verge, made by the sculptor Juan Bautista Borja.
- There is only one nave inside of it, and it does not have a cross shape. Side chapels are situated in the spaces between the buttresses, and there are a total of six bays. Numerous rooms and other components have been appended to the original structure throughout its existence.
- In its interior, the main rococo altar of the 18th century and the chapels of the Baptism of the Immaculada and of the Communion stand out for Damunt D'altres elements.
- In the Chapter House, there is a huge baptismal font from the 16th century and a Valencian baroque organ from 1653
- A trip to the temple, a drink at one of the many eateries in the area, and getting lost in the twisting alleyways of the old town that encircle the Basilica of Santa Maria are all wonderful ways to spend a day in this part of town, located just a few steps from the beach.
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