Costa Blanca South
Aspe s timeless symbols: Castles, culture, and continuity
By Anna Ellis •
Published: 17 Jun 2024 • 10:45
Aspe s rich history is symbolised in its flag and coat of arms, featuring an image of three castles that played pivotal roles in the town s past.
Castillo del Rio
One significant historical site is the Castillo del Río, an Islamic fortified area from the 12th-13th century.
Located three kilometres from Aspe, near the road connecting the town with the Madrid-Alicante motorway, it stands on the left bank of the Vinalopó River, south of its confluence with the Tarafa River, on a 246-metre-high hill.
Rather than being a traditional castle, Castillo del Río is a fortified town built during the Almohad era, with walls and twelve towers.
The elongated layout covers about 7,000 square metres and is divided into two sections.
Archaeological Finds
Numerous excavation campaigns at this site have revealed remarkable archaeological finds, including one of only two Arab ploughs discovered in Spain, now displayed in the Archaeological Museum of Alicante (MARQ).
Aljau Castle
In contrast, much less remains of the Aljau Castle. Built in the 15th century on a small hill for defence, only some walls stand today.
Calvary Castle
As for the Calvary Castle, also built in the 15th century, no physical remnants have been found, though historical records suggest it was located on the town s west side.
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Originally from Derbyshire, Anna has lived in the middle of nowhere on the Costa Blanca for 19 years. She is passionate about her animal family including four dogs and four horses, musicals and cooking.
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