Contents
Come to the Costa Blanca to discover the traditions we most enjoy near Ciudad Quesada.
Easter Week is a special time in the Christian liturgical calendar that commemorates the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. During this week, there are a variety of activities that take place in many communities on the Costa Blanca of Spain to celebrate and reflect on this important religious event.
One of the most common activities during Holy Week is attendance at religious services, which include processions, masses and theatrical representations of the Passion of Christ.
Another popular activity is participation in processions, where images of virgins and saints are carried through the streets of the community. These processions often include music, songs and prayers.
For many people, Holy Week is also a time to gather with family and friends. It is common to celebrate special meals during this week, where traditional dishes are prepared.
In addition to religious and social activities, many communities on the Costa Blanca also organise cultural and recreational events during Holy Week. These may include sacred music concerts, theatre performances, craft fairs and gastronomic festivals.
Below, we present several cities of tourist interest, where at this time of the year tourism abounds thanks to Easter Week near Ciudad Quesada.
Elche
Elche, a charming city on the Mediterranean coast of Spain, 30 minutes from Ciudad Quesada, captivates with its rich history, impressive cultural heritage and lush natural surroundings. Located in the province of Alicante in the Valencian Community, Elche stands out for its diversity and vibrant atmosphere.
At the heart of the city lies the famous Palmeral de Elche, the largest palm grove in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This oasis of palm trees dates back to the time of Muslim domination of the Iberian Peninsula and is an emblematic symbol of the city. To stroll through its shady paths is to immerse oneself in a world of serenity and natural beauty.
In addition to the Palm Grove, Elche is known for its impressive Basilica of Santa Maria, a masterpiece of Valencian Gothic art. This majestic church, built on the remains of an ancient mosque, houses valuable works of religious art and offers a unique panoramic view from its bell tower.
Elche’s historical legacy is also manifested in the Misteri d’Elx, a sacred-musical drama performed every year in August for more than five hundred years. This unique theatrical performance recounts the Dormition, Assumption and Coronation of the Virgin Mary and is considered one of the most important cultural expressions in Spain.
But Elche is not only proud of its historical past, it also looks to the future with a thriving economy and a growing cultural and gastronomic scene. Its cobbled streets are full of life, with bustling markets, charming shops and a wide variety of bars and restaurants offering traditional and contemporary culinary delights.
With its golden sandy beaches just a short drive away, mild Mediterranean climate and friendly atmosphere, Elche is a destination that perfectly combines history, culture and natural beauty. To visit this city is to immerse oneself in a universe of unforgettable experiences that delight all the senses and leave a lasting impression on the hearts of those who discover it.
As for Easter, Elche has its own identity. On the first Sunday of the week, called Domingo de Ramos (Palm Sunday), families walk through the city accompanying the cófrades with white palms. The following Sunday, called Domingo de Aleluyas or Resurrection Sunday, the sky is filled with colours. Colourful printed images fall from the balconies of the families celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Guardamar
Guardamar del Segura, just 10 minutes from Ciudad Quesada, a coastal gem in the province of Alicante, Spain, seduces with its Mediterranean charm, golden sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Situated on the Costa Blanca, this picturesque town offers a perfect combination of nature, culture and leisure for visitors.
The undisputed star of Guardamar is its extensive coastline, which stretches along more than 11 kilometres of unspoilt beaches and fine sand dunes. The crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea invite bathers to dive into its refreshing tides, while sun worshippers find their paradise in the wide strips of sun-drenched sand.
But Guardamar is much more than its beaches. At the heart of the town stands the imposing Guardamar Castle, a 10th century fortress that offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the coastal surroundings and the hinterland. From the top of its towers, visitors can take in the breathtaking views of the sea and the Guardamar Dunes Nature Reserve, a protected area that is home to a rich biodiversity and incomparable natural beauty.
The old town of Guardamar, with its narrow cobbled streets and picturesque squares, is a haven of tranquillity where time seems to stand still. Here, visitors can enjoy authentic Spanish life, exploring local boutiques, sampling delicious Mediterranean cuisine in cosy restaurants and immersing themselves in the region’s rich history and culture.
Nature lovers will find Guardamar a paradise on earth. The Parque Natural de las Dunas de Guardamar, with its unique ecosystem of dunes, pine forests and wetlands, is a haven for a wide variety of birds and other animal species. Nature trails winding through the park invite hikers and birdwatchers to explore this privileged environment.
Guardamar is also known for its festivals and cultural events, which fill the streets with joy and colour throughout the year. From the Easter celebrations to the fiestas in honour of the Virgen del Rosario, the town vibrates with the energy of its traditions and hospitable people.
In short, Guardamar del Segura is a destination that captivates with its natural beauty, rich history and relaxed lifestyle. Whether exploring its golden beaches, immersing oneself in its cultural heritage or simply enjoying the tranquillity of its natural surroundings, this charming coastal town leaves a lasting impression on all who are lucky enough to visit.
About Semana Santa in Guardamar, on the Monday after Easter Sunday there is the translation of going to the pine forest of Guardamar to eat mona. The mona is a typical Spanish pastry. It has its origin in the Arabic “munna” which means offering. This tradition of Mona Monday puts an end to Lent and therefore to the Holy Week.
Rojales
Just 5 minutes from Ciudad Quesada, the municipality of Rojales, a hidden treasure in the province of Alicante, Spain, dazzles with its rural charm, rich history and welcoming atmosphere. Located in the Vega Baja del Segura region, this picturesque town offers its visitors an authentic and genuine experience, far from the hustle and bustle of the busier tourist areas.
The heart of Rojales beats to the tranquil rhythm of its narrow cobbled streets and cobbled squares, where time seems to have stood still. The old town, with its whitewashed houses and facades adorned with colourful potted plants, is a haven of peace where visitors can immerse themselves in authentic Spanish life.
One of the jewels of Rojales is the spectacular Parque Natural de las Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja, which stretches along its boundaries. This nature sanctuary, with its salt lakes, pine forests and wetlands, is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including pink flamingos and grey herons. Nature lovers will find this privileged environment the perfect place to explore and enjoy the natural beauty.
Rojales is also known for its impressive architecture, which reflects its rich history and cultural heritage. The Carlos III Bridge, which crosses the Segura River, is a magnificent example of 18th century engineering and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. In addition, the Church of San Pedro Apostle, with its elegant baroque façade and imposing bell tower, is a must-see for fans of religious architecture.
The town comes alive with festivals and cultural events, celebrating its traditions and local identity. From the fiestas in honour of San Pedro Apostle to Semana Santa, Rojales is filled with music, dance and joy throughout the year, offering visitors an authentic and memorable experience.
As far as Semana Santa is concerned, Rojales has beautiful sculptures with a high expressiveness and majestic thrones give name to the Semana Santa of Rojales. The staging of the Passion, Death and Resurrection declare Rojales to be of local tourist interest during this week.
And now that you know a little more about the towns surrounding Ciudad Quesada and its diverse plans and traditions, if you are thinking of coming to enjoy a Mediterranean lifestyle or thinking of investing in a property, where better than here? Discover Ciudad Quesada on Spain’s Costa Blanca.
At Euromarina we are happy to help you in your choice of property, whether it is a flat with a private garden or solarium in one of our beautiful residential complexes (see apartments), or a spectacular villa with private pool (see villas).
