The Secrets of Alicante are hidden in plain sight, just waiting for curious travellers like you to uncover them. Forget the tourist traps and the guidebook highlights — this is a city that rewards the keen-eyed explorer. So why not take on the challenge of a self-guided treasure hunt through Alicante? You’ll discover everything from ancient mysteries to quirky modern artefacts, with every step revealing a new facet of this sun-kissed coastal gem.
The Face on the statue in Plaza Gabriel Miró
Start your treasure hunt by delving into one of the most intriguing secrets of Alicante: the face in Plaza Gabriel Miró’s La Aguadora fountain. Sculpted in 1918 by Vicente Bañuls, this serene woman pouring water from her jug is more than just a statue. Her face belongs to Susana Llaneras Rico, a 17-year-old local girl whose likeness is forever etched into Alicante’s history. Born in 1899, Susana was just 17 years old when the sculptor took a liking to her and selected her to pose for this piece. The statue was commissioned to celebrate the arrival of piped water to Alicante, and it has become an iconic part of the city’s landscape.
In her later years, Susana led a more private life, marrying Pedro Cerdán and becoming a mum and a home-maker. She passed away in 1992 at the age of 92. Her family had strong connections to Alicante; her brother, Lorenzo Llaneras, was a prominent Republican politician during the Second Spanish Republic.This simple fountain not only celebrates the arrival of running water in the city but also immortalises a local figure whose name most tourists will never know. Susana even has a nearby street named after her.
Alicante’s First Traffic Light: A Quirky Find
Among the intriguing secrets of Alicante is its very first traffic light, now quietly situated outside the Museo de Hogueras on Calle de San Vicente. Originally installed on March 24, 1958, on Avenida de Alfonso el Sabio near the Mercado Central, this traffic light represented a significant step in managing the city’s growing traffic. Back then, approximately 1,000 vehicles passed through the area daily—quite a contrast to today’s 20,000 to 22,000 vehicles.
This early attempt at traffic control was part of a trial to see how well the system could manage congestion in one of Alicante’s busiest spots. Though it might seem like a modest relic, the traffic light offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s urban development. It stands as a symbol of Alicante’s transition into the modern era, when the town began adapting to the increasing demands of its streets.
So, as you wander through the city, remember this small but significant part of Alicante’s history—one of those hidden secrets that tells the story of how even something as everyday as a traffic light played a role in shaping the vibrant city we see today.
Plaza Séneca: Where Time Stands Still
Next on your secrets of Alicante treasure map is Plaza Séneca. Once a busy bus station, this building and the outside space has since been transformed into a green and tranquil spot for locals and visitors alike. The preserved Art Deco architecture of the old bus station adds a nostalgic touch, reminding us of the days when 60 buses per hour exited through this very space. Today, the Art Deco building is used for exhibitions and cultural events, but knowing its past adds a whole new layer of appreciation as you stroll through it. Extra points if you manage to go inside and se the original Gaston Castello murals at either end of the building.
Whilst here you may also want to visit the underground Air Raid Shelter that sits underneath with space for 1500 people.
Cannonballs in the wall of the Basilica of Santa María
If you’re a fan of dramatic history, head to the Basilica of Santa María, where you’ll discover one of the most unexpected secrets of Alicante: real cannonballs embedded in the church walls. These remnants from a French siege tell a story of a city that had to defend itself against invaders. While most visitors will admire the Gothic beauty at the front of the basilica (see the picture above), you’ll be among the select few who can point out this tangible link to Alicante’s more turbulent times. To see the cannonballs you’ll need to descend the steps in the corner of the square and head to the side of the building. If you want to find out more about these cannonballs and how they got there and discover more about Alicante’s past why not download our self-guided audio tour of Alicante.
Faces on the Drainpipes in the old town
Wandering through the old Town of Alicante, don’t just look at the medieval houses. One of the most whimsical secrets of Alicante can be found in the form of carved faces (Caras de Agua) on the old drainpipes. While they may seem like a minor detail, they give the barrio a playful character that’s often overlooked. Who says treasure hunts can’t be fun? These hidden faces are like a wink from the city, urging you to notice the small, charming details others might miss. It is assumed they were a brand or mark from the factory that made the particular drain pipes.
Tram Tracks in San Blas: A Forgotten Era
The secrets of Alicante extend to the San Blas neighbourhood, where you can spot the faint outlines of old tram tracks embedded in the road for just a short distance. These are the remains of an early 20th-century tram system that once played a vital role in connecting Alicante’s citizens. Though the trams have long since disappeared from the San Blas barrio, these tracks remind us of the city’s evolving transportation history. Keep an eye out — it’s the perfect treasure for any transport buff!
Point Zero: Alicante’s Hidden Centre
Few visitors realise that one of the most important secrets of Alicante lies at the Queen Elizabeth Steps in the marina. This unassuming spot, marked by a simple plaque, is actually Spain’s Point Zero—the reference point for all altitude measurements in the country. Yes, from this very location, Spain calculates the elevation of its cities and landmarks. For example, Madrid’s altitude of 600 metres is measured in relation to this specific point.
While some people may tell you that ground zero is marked by a plaque inside Alicante’s Town Hall, that’s just a tourist marker—don’t be fooled. The real treasure is here, at the marina, and now you know. But shh… keep it to yourself! This little-known secret adds an extra layer of excitement to your exploration of Alicante, especially when you realise you’re standing at the very start of Spain’s entire geographical system.
So next time you’re in the area, seek out this hidden gem, and enjoy the feeling of being in on one of Alicante’s best-kept secrets.
Dalí’s Hidden Sculpture in the Town Hall
While exploring the secrets of Alicante, be sure to pop into the Town Hall. There, you’ll discover an unexpected gem: a sculpture by the famous Spanish surrealist artist Salvador Dalí. It’s not exactly hidden but people are often surprised to learn that it is a Dalí.
What makes this piece even more special is the artist’s personal touch — you look closely you can see the actual thumbprints of the artist as he carefully crafted the body of St John the Baptist, making it a rare, intimate artwork from one of Spain’s most famous surrealists. Most people rush past this room without realising what they’re missing, but not you, the savvy treasure hunter!
“The Best Land in the World” in Plaza Mayor
One of the secrets of Alicante can be found in Plaza del Ayuntamiento, where the phrase “La Millor Terra del Món”—”The Best Land in the World”—is inscribed on the ground. This phrase originated in the 19th century, tied to the pride locals had in Alicante’s clay, once used for cleaning. Over time, it evolved into a cultural slogan, first popularised by Mariano Roca de Togores, who playfully declared Alicante superior in a letter to his friend in Madrid.
Today, the inscription is a subtle nod to the deep affection residents feel for their city, encapsulating the spirit of Alicante in a few simple words.
Los Pozos de Garrigós: Wells of Alicante’s Past
Just a short, steep climb from Plaza del Ayuntamiento, you’ll find one of Alicante’s hidden gems: the Pozos de Garrigós. These ancient wells, nestled next to the Museo de Aguas (Museum of water) in the Barrio de San Antón, were essential to the city’s water management for centuries. Dating back to medieval times, they collected and stored rainwater, ensuring Alicante’s survival during periods of drought.
Walking into the wells is like stepping into an Indiana Jones film set—dark, cavernous, and a little mysterious. These underground chambers, carved into the rock, offer a glimpse into the city’s resourcefulness in the face of tough environmental conditions. It’s one of the secrets of Alicante that speaks to the ingenuity and resilience of its people. The Pozos de Garrigós are not just relics of the past, but reminders of how water was once the key to life in Alicante.
A Glittering Chandelier in Casino Mediterráneo
The grand chandelier inside Casino Mediterráneo in Alicante is one of its most striking features, though detailed information about its exact age or origins seems to be limited. However, the casino itself has a rich history, dating back to 1897 when it first opened as a hub of opulence and entertainment for the city’s elite. The chandelier, with its glittering design, perfectly complements this atmosphere of elegance and luxury, offering visitors a touch of glamour as they enjoy the gaming experience. While specific details about the chandelier’s history may not be well documented, its presence adds to the overall lavish feel of the casino, which continues to serve as a modern entertainment venue today
If you’re keen to uncover more of the secrets of Alicante as you stroll along the Explanada, why not slip into the casino bar for a drink? As you approach the terrace, don’t miss the magnificent chandelier sparkling in the ballroom on your left—one of those hidden treasures that adds a dash of elegance to your evening, revealing yet another layer of Alicante’s charm.
Alicante’s First Elevator: A Step into Modernity
Another one of the intriguing secrets of Alicante is the Casa del Ascensor, which sits right on the corner of Plaza Portal de Elche. This building, designed by Enrique Sánchez Sedeño in 1903, became famous for housing the first elevator ever installed in Alicante. While you won’t see the original lift inside, there’s a plaque on the outside that commemorates this leap into modernisation—a pretty big deal back in the day.
The building itself is a beauty, with its modernist architecture and intricate floral designs. So next time you’re wandering around the Plaza, take a moment to stop and appreciate this little nugget of history. It’s easy to miss, but once you know what you’re looking at, it feels like you’ve uncovered a real piece of Alicante’s past.
Time to Unearth More Secrets of Alicante
Alicante is a city that rewards the inquisitive traveller, and there’s no better way to experience it than by uncovering its hidden treasures. From cannonballs in churches to playful drainpipe faces, the secrets of Alicante tell stories that are often missed by the casual tourist. Want to take your treasure hunt to the next level? Try a self-guided audio tour from VoiceMap.me. With your headphones in, the city will come alive with stories and clues, leading you from one hidden gem to the next.
The secrets of Alicante are out there, waiting for you to discover them. Happy hunting!
Just before we go … we challenge any of you treasure hunters to find this next little gem. It’s a picture of a little piggy somewhere in the streets of Alicante. We won’t say where it is but if you really want to know you can email us and we’ll tell you… Good Luck with your treasure hunting :o)!!!
