Benitachell (Poble Nou de Benitatxell)
 

Benitachell lies in the southwest of the Marina Alta - in the northern area of Alicante province. It is located in the autonomous community of Valencia.

Benitachell's coastline of 1.255 linear metres is notable for its sheer cliffs and wonderful coves, namely Testos, Almoraig and Llebeig. Prehistoric discoveries found in the Cova del Moro bay document parts of Benitachell's history which can be traced back 18,000 years.

Other prehistoric discoveries document the long occupation of the area by Ibericans, Romans and Andalusians - up to the conquest by the Catalan-Aragons in the year 1244.

The historical ups and downs finally lead to the abandonment of the area known as Alqueria de Benitagell.

Settlers returned in 1698 this time calling their "pueblo" (village) Poble Nou de Benitatxell. During this long period, Benitachell was ruled by the Marquesa de Denia. Despite the many tourist-friendly areas and new urbanisations, the area has kept its individual landscape with large areas dedicated to agriculture and the cultivation of the moscatel grape.

The centre of Benitachell, situated on the crest of a hill, has kept the characteristics of a genuine Valencian village.

As wih many villages in the Marina Alta, Benitachell celebrates several festivals during the year. The festival of roses is unique. In May, Benitachell celebrates the Festival of Roses in honour of the Virgin Mary. During these festivities, which take place on the first Sunday in May, the virgin will be honoured by various religious acts, such as masses and processions.

A special feature of the festival being a procession through the village to distribute “blessed bread” to the people.