Filled with narrow streets and mysterious caves in Valencia, it is Spain’s most beautiful and least known city.

It is located in the Vall d’Albaida region and north of the Sierra de Mariola Natural Park, almost on the border with Alicante (it is the southernmost municipality of the Spanish province). Valencia) and one of those towns that many don’t know about but a real gem.

It was chosen as the cultural capital of Valencia in 2021 and its big appeal is its rock-cut caves and labyrinthine cobbled streets. Bocairent, one of the most beautiful cities in Valencia.

Bocairent and Arab history

The first human settlements discovered in Bocairent date back to the Neolithic period in the caves of Vinalopó and Sarsa. But there are many different cultures that thrive in this strange town. From the nearby Iberian settlements to the Romans, whose remains are still preserved in certain areas, although Arab culture is undoubtedly the most notable and best preserved today.

The old city, which has been declared a historical-artistic site, is the best legacy from that time. The Arabian style is perfectly reflected in the narrow streets. It’s full of ups and downs, squares and streets in Granada’s Albaicín style.

Old entrances like those in Agosto, San Blai or Calzada Excusada take us to an old town filled with flowers and fountains that shine a light on this little hidden gem.

On the way through the old town we find three retreats: Sant Joan, Mare de Déu dels Desemparats and Mare de Déu d’Agost. First and foremost is an ancient Arab mosque that dates back to the 13th century and was the first church built in the town.

But in addition to that, we find some medieval ruins (if medieval is your thing, have a look at these medieval towns) was discovered in 2008 and by the parish of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, an 18th-century building in the Arabian fortress that previously dominated Bocairent.

Inside Municipal Archaeological MuseumWe can expand on all this information thanks to the collection of representative objects from the Upper Paleolithic to the Middle Ages located next to the parish church.

Bocairent’s Magic Way

Town Hall square kicks off the call Magic Route encircling the entire perimeter of the historic centre. dir-dir approximately 2 and a half kilometers of circular route It allows us to see not only Bocairent but also beautiful views of the Sierra de Mariola that surrounds it.

Basic Covetes dels Moors

north of the medieval town of Bocairent Covetes dels Moros, a series of windows or holes carved in stone in the middle of a cliff, Barranc de la Fos.

About fifty windows provide access to many rooms believed to have been built in the 10th century. These windows, which were used as warehouses during the Andalusian period, served the surrounding Berber communities. Bocairent Tourism.

The best view of Bocairente

We like to visit a city but we like it more to see and enjoy its profile from a far place. Don’t leave town and cross the Darrere la Vila BridgeThe oldest of Bocairent, we will find the most beautiful view of the city.

Of course, Bocairent is not a destination for a morning stay, it is one of the cities that deserves a visit. to escape and even a bridge that allows us to enjoy its history, culture and gastronomy such as Mariola gazpacho or classic Valencian rice dishes. cooked rice.

It is therefore ideal to make a visit on a long weekend or weekend and take advantage of, for example, La casita de Bocairent, a small apartment in the centre. 208 euros the five-star Hotel Ferrero for a two-night weekend or just a little further from the centre. 447 € for two nights in a double room.

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Photos | istock, Bocairent Tourism

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