Basílica de Santa María

Alicante Province


This vast baroque church with its trademark blue dome is used for performances of the Misteri d’Elx. The interior is lofty and imposing with a neoclassical austerity to its lines. Climb its tower for a sweeping, pigeon’s-eye view over the palms.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Alicante Province attractions

2. Museu de la Festa

0.08 MILES

Near the basilica where the Misteri d'Elx is performed, Museu de la Festa offers a multimedia presentation, complete with virtual Apostle, about the drama…

3. Parque Municipal

0.17 MILES

This lovely park on the northern side of central Elche is one of several appealing places to stroll among the rustling palm trees. A small visitor centre…

4. Museu del Palmerar

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In a former farmhouse, this museum is all about the date palm and the intricate blanched, woven fronds used throughout Spain in Palm Sunday rites. Wander…

5. Huerto del Cura

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6. L'Alcúdia

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This well-documented site is 3.5km south of the town centre. The Dama de Elche, a masterpiece of Iberian art that’s now in Madrid, was unearthed here…

7. Mercado Central

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Alicante's main market hall is a feast for the eyes and other senses. Dating from the 1920s, it has a few Modernista flourishes; it suffered extensive…

8. Museu de Fogueres

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In addition to a wealth of photographs, costumes and the most popular ninot (effigy) of each year, saved from their normal fiery fate by popular vote,…