Discover Altea!
Altea is a small, charming town with a characteristic centre on top of a hill. In this centre, the many narrow streets, white picturesque houses and art galleries stand out. Altea is a town with personality!
History
Numerous civilisations (Iberians, Greeks, Phoenicians, Romans and Muslims) left their traces and influences throughout history. In the 17th century, the city often had to deal with pirates.
Since the 18th century, it became a refuge for many artists, writers and musicians. In the 60’s – 70’s it was still very loved by creative people and Altea got its Bohemian atmosphere.
Culture
Altea is culture and carries the title of “cultural capital” of the Valencian Community. It accommodates the Palau de Altea, with a faculty for Fine Arts from the University, a music conservatory, a cultural centre and an Ethnic Music museum.
The “Iglesia Ortodoxa Rusa” is a Russian Orthodox church just outside the centre. This does not seem like something special, but it will to whom has seen it. It was the first Russian Orthodox church in Spain. It was built by a, who else, Russian billionaire and based on a Russian Orthodox church of the 17th century.
Efforts nor money were spared, and Russian workers started their work with, among others, wood from the Ural Mountains and, as is customary in orthodox churches, gold foil was used abundantly.
In the oldest neighbourhood of Altea the “Torra de Bellaguarda” can be found. This is a former tower from the city wall which, just like the “Torre de la Galera”, has been declared Cultural Heritage.
The “Iglesia nuestra Senora del Consuelo” can be considered as the symbol of Altea. This Parish Church dates back to the start of the 20th century. Apart from the higher position, the double blue domes with white decoration in particular take the spotlight. Because of its elevated position, it is often called the “Iglesia de Arriba” (elevated church).
This is a charming parish that is worth viewing.
