Home Museum: L'Hort de Colón

Living History of Seafaring Benidorm

The Casa Museo l’Hort de Colón is an exceptional testament to Benidorm’s maritime rise in the 19th century.
It was built in 1885 by Vicente Zaragoza Ortuño, a prominent shipowner and captain in the merchant navy.
The property originally stood on a large plot of land with an irrigation pool, waterwheel, fruit trees and olive groves — a typical family residence for the naval elite of the time.

After Vicente’s passing in 1899, the estate was divided among his children. In 1988, part of the land and house was donated to the City of Benidorm, preserving its heritage value and transforming it into a museum open to the public.

What is the visit to l’Hort de Colón like?

• ✅ Traditional two-storey house with a sober façade, covered porch, and period furnishings.
• 🌳 Historic garden with cypresses, palm trees, jasmine, and bougainvillea, recreating the original Mediterranean orchard.
• 🕰️ Guided tours available by appointment, organised by the Department of Historical Heritage.
• ♿ Partial accessibility: ground floor accessible via ramp; upper floor only by stairs.

ℹ️ To arrange a visit, contact Benidorm’s Department of Historical Heritage.

What does l’Hort de Colón represent in Benidorm’s culture?

This museum is more than just an old house — it’s a symbol of Benidorm’s seafaring legacy.
The story of the Zaragoza family, their ties to the shipping company La Trasatlántica, and everyday life around a Mediterranean orchard reflect a deep-rooted local identity.

The building has been lovingly preserved, maintaining original features like the oil press, chicken coop, irrigation pool, and centuries-old trees — creating a truly immersive cultural space.

Frequently Asked Questions

• 📍 Where is Casa Museo l’Hort de Colón located?

In Benidorm’s historic centre, near Paseo de la Carretera and Calle Alameda — two key streets in the city’s 19th-century maritime development.

• 📅 Do I need to book in advance?

Yes, visits require an appointment through the Historical Heritage Department.

• ♿ Is it accessible for visitors with reduced mobility?

Only the ground floor is accessible via a ramp. There is no lift to the upper floor.

• 🏠 What can I see inside?

Original furnishings from the period, traditional living spaces, temporary exhibitions, and the historic garden featuring native and ornamental species.

Would you like to discover more hidden gems from Benidorm’s past?

Visit the official website 👉 www.visitbenidorm.es and immerse yourself in the living history of a city shaped by the sea, tradition and heritage.