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Guardamar History The area around Guardamar del Segura has been popular throughout the ages. This is largely due to its proximity to the River Segura, which allowed seafaring vessels to penetrate the mainland with relative ease. Iberians, Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans and Arabs have all settled here; some to a greater degree than others. The name Guardamar roughly translates as Guardian of the Sea, and its strategic location ensured that it became the site of ancient fortifications, and an important lookout point. However a terrible 1829 earthquake destroyed the old walled city and the castle at its centre, compelling its surviving inhabitants to search for a new location nearer the shore. This in itself posed major problems, created by the advancing sands of the coastal dunes. Eventually a solution was found by way of planting many pine trees so that the town was partially protected from the (so called) "flying sands" and the advance halted. Although most of Guardamar's ancient remains have been long since lost, an element has been preserved. The remains of the Rabita Califal (a medieval castle) dates back to between the 9th and 10th century, and is unique to the west. An archaeological site, this has been declared of cultural interest. In addition the centrally located Casa de Cultura (House of Culture) houses many artefacts explaining much of the town's history.
More Alicante Links; Guardamar History, History of Guardamar, Costa Blanca, Spain |
Guardamar History, History of Guardamar, Costa Blanca, Spain. Holiday, Property and Tourist Information. Guardamar Information, general information on Guardamar. Guardamar Costa Blanca, Spain. Holiday and Property. |