Benidorm Castle
History, archaeology and legacy at Punta del Canfali
What Was Benidorm Castle?
Benidorm Castle was the original fortress around which the city was founded. It was built following the granting of the town charter on 8 May 1325 by Admiral Bernat de Sarrià, acting on behalf of King James II of Aragon. The castle stood atop Punta del Canfali, a strategic headland nestled between Levante and Poniente beaches, offering commanding views of the Mediterranean.
Why Was the Castle Important?
From its earliest days, the castle served as the military and administrative heart of the new settlement. It housed the first homes, defensive walls and fortifications. Thanks to its elevated location, it became a vital stronghold against the threat of Barbary pirate raids, which plagued the coast between the 15th and 17th centuries.
Key Events and Attacks
- 🛡️ 1447 – A Tunisian fleet attacked the town, capturing its entire population.
- 🏗️ 16th century – Fortification plans were drawn up by military engineer Juan Bautista Antonelli, though never implemented.
- 🏰 1666 – Beatriz Fajardo de Mendoza promoted the reinforcement of the town walls and repopulated the village with 40 families.
- 💣 Peninsular War (1808–1814) – The castle was occupied by Napoleonic troops and ultimately destroyed by the British army.
What Happened to the Castle in the 20th Century?
After lying in ruins for over a century, the site was completely redesigned in 1928. A white balustrade was added — now one of Benidorm’s most photographed landmarks. This redevelopment removed all visible traces of the original castle and gave rise to the current Plaça del Castell and the iconic Balcony of the Mediterranean.
What Did the 2019 Archaeological Excavation Reveal?
In 2019, an archaeological project led by Lure Arqueología uncovered the first physical remains of the castle, previously known only through historical documents. Key discoveries included:
- 🧱 Segments of late medieval wall, a polygonal tower with a cistern, the moat, and perimeter structures.
- 🏺 Large quantities of 16th-century ceramics, indicating peak activity within the castle grounds.
- 🧬 Human remains belonging to at least 32 individuals, found in fill layers used during the 19th-century remodelling of the viewpoint.
- 🕰️ Evidence of earlier occupation dating back to the 13th century, confirming settlement before the town’s official founding.
After five months of work, the site reopened to the public in November 2019, with interpretive signage and archaeological features now on display for visitors to explore.
📌 Timeline of Benidorm Castle
- 1325 – Founding of the town and construction of the castle
- 1447 – Tunisian raid; entire population taken captive
- 1666 – Second town charter and wall reinforcements
- 16th century – Fortification plans with new towers and defences
- 1808–1814 – Castle destroyed during the Peninsular War
- 1928 – Urban transformation with balustrade and public square
- 2019 – Archaeological excavation and public reopening
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
- Can you visit Benidorm Castle today?
Yes, although the original structure no longer stands, you can visit the Plaça del Castell and its panoramic viewpoint, which marks the castle’s historic location.
- What remains of the original castle?
Archaeological remains discovered in 2019, some of which are visible through onsite displays and interpretive panels.
- Why was the castle destroyed?
It was bombarded during the Peninsular War and gradually dismantled before its full urban redevelopment in 1928.
- When was the castle rediscovered?
In 2019, during an archaeological excavation that revealed construction phases and confirmed its historical value.
- What is the Plaça del Castell used for today?
It’s one of Benidorm’s most iconic public spaces — a scenic viewpoint that blends history, culture, and stunning sea views.
