Diana García Sáez, EER Volunteer
European Solidarity Corps KAIZEN Youth for Health
About my country Alicante (Spain)
I would like to speak about my country (Spain), and where I was born (Alicante).
Spain is in the south of Europe and is known for its history, art, bullfights, flamenco, beaches and so many hours of sunshine a year. But it depends on the community in which you are born.
Alicante is located in the south of the Valencian Community, next to the Mediterranean Sea.
Two official languages coexist: Castilian: official language of the Spanish state. Valencian: own language of the Valencian Community.
I love my hometown for the Moors and Christians festival and the Night of San Juan, the 24th of June. This one has as its protagonists the bonfires in which the ninots (paper-mache monuments) are burned, which, previously, have been exposed days before in the streets of the Alicante capital…
Also, rice, cooked in multiple ways, is the protagonist of a tasty gastronomy. Rice a banda (rice with fish), black rice (with cuttlefish), baked rice, etc.
The city and its port are dominated by Mount Benacantil, a large rocky promontory on top of which stands the fortress of Santa Bárbara. Of Arab origin, the castle has traces of all the towns that passed through the city, although much of the current construction belongs to the 16th century. From the top of its walls, the entire city is dominated, while impressive panoramic views of the coastal strip and the interior are obtained for several kilometres around.
The Paseo de la Explanada de España, located in front of the port, is a lively boulevard dotted with terraces. A more modern entertainment area stretches along the harbour's jetty, where there are also numerous restaurants and bars. Next to both spaces is the urban beach of El Postiguet, a privileged enclave to enjoy the sea and the sun.
For these reasons and many more, I recommend visiting Alicante in summer.