Polop

Polop de la Marina, also known as Polop, is a town in the Valencian Community. About 4000 residents live there and it is situated in the northeast of the Alicante province. Since its origin, in Iberian times and for its strategic position Polop de la Marina has played an important part in local history. In 928 the military castle belonged to Sheikh Alastami who besieged Alicante from the castle. He finally lost it and his own family took him as a prisoner. Many more fights and battle have been fought between Spanish kings, Arab leaders and Moors. As a result, the ancient castle always has always been a protagonist of these battles. Since long agriculture and in particular the cultivation of almonds, olives, and citrics have been the main reason for income. Just as the other municipalities surrounding Polop it has also had a boost from tourism. This is visible because of the many new houses being built just outside the old town in recent years. The old town charms with its many small streets spread on the hillside. The medieval walls crown the antique cemetery that offers beautiful views over Polop, the landscape and the mountains. Also, the San Pedro church in the centre of the old town is worth visiting.