Torrevieja

Torrevieja (Spanish pronunciation: [toreˈβjexa], Valencian: Torrevella [toreˈveʎa]) is a seaside city and municipality located on the Costa Blanca in the province of Alicante, in south-eastern Spain.

Torrevieja lies about 30 miles south of the city of Alicante and has a population of 104,000 (2008). Torrevieja was originally a salt-mining and fishing village as it is located between the sea and two large salt lakes (Las Salinas), which give Torrevieja a healthy micro climate.

It has a vibrant multi national population with over 1000 bars and restaurants with plenty going on for tourists, locals and ex-pats all year round. With over 300 days of sunshine each year there are many activities for all nationalities of tourists and locals.

History

Until 1802, Torrevieja existed only as an ancient guard tower, which gave the town its name (Torre Vieja (Spanish) means Old Tower) and some labourers' cottages. But in 1803, Charles IV authorized the movement of the salt production offices from La Mata to the town itself and allowed the construction of dwellings there. In 1829, the town was totally destroyed by an earthquake, but the basins were soon reconstructed and re-opened. In 1931, Alfonso XIII gave Torrevieja city status by special grant. During this period, there was also a growing market for flax, hemp and cotton.