Peniscola
Guide to Peniscola, a resort in the Costa del Azahar region of Spain.
Costa del Azahar Resorts - Peniscola
Peniscola (Peñiscola) - Probably the best known resort along the Costa del Azahar, the old fortified town of Peníscola is built around the base of a medieval castle on a rocky promontory protruding into the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, connected to the mainland only by a narrow strip of land. The quaint white-walled houses line a maze of narrow winding streets and alleyways, forming the area known as the ‘old town’, this is enclosed by huge ramparts which are entered by way of 2 gateways - the Fosch Gate and the San Pedro Gate.
The castle itself is famous for being the location of the filming of the epic ‘El Cid’ and the upper battlements of the castle were built solely for the making of this film. The castle (Castell) was begun in 1294 and was built on the former site of a much older Arab fortress. By 1307 the castle was complete - an amazing achievement for these times, this was due to the industry and fortitude of the Knights Templar who were responsible for its construction. The castle later became the residence of the enigmatic Pope Luna (Benedict XIII) who became Pope during the Great Schism in the latter part of the 14th Century.
Peniscola today is a popular tourist destination and its main beach (norte) is some 5km long and around 44 metres wide, with areas of both sand and rocks, the beach is lapped by the calm, warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
To the south, tiny beaches are bounded by rocky cliffs and coves and are a popular area for snorkelling and scuba diving. The fine marina has a good selection of bars and restaurants and this is a great place to try out some of the local fish dishes for which the area is famous.
Peniscola holds some popular and important cultural events throughout the year and these include the ‘Ciudad de Peniscola’ (Short Story Award), the International Festival of Cinema Comedy, and the International Festival of Ancient and Baroque Music.
Peniscola is located on the CV141 which can be accessed from the A7 motorway and from the N340.
Peniscola Links: Peniscola Map - Peniscola Weather - Street Map
Peniscola Hotels: Gran Hotel Peniscola
Costa del Azahar Golf: Oliva Nova Golf - More Spanish Golf
Costa del Azahar Places: Valencia - Alcala de la Selva - Alcossebre - Benicarlo - Benicassim - Burriana - Castellon de la Plana - Cullera - Morella - Onda - Orpesa - Sagunt - Teruel - Vilafames - Vinaros - Valdelinares
Related: Valencia Airport Transfers - Alicante - Barcelona - Murcia - Builders
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