The town of Peñiscola is set in a privileged part of the spanish mediterranean. The old city which is crowned by a XIV century castle-stronghold and was the residence of Pope Benedicto XIII, stands on top of an impressive rocky crag which rises 200 feet above the blue sea. A sandy isthmus joins it to the mainland. Warm waters in summer and autumn are shared between the extensive beaches of fine sand which lie to the north of the fortress, and the beautiful coves flanked by steep cliffs which can be found to the south
Peñiscola has been the crossroads of many cultures. Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines and Arabs came after the Phoenicians and the Greeks...They were all aware of the city's advantageous location, security and ideal climate. Hannibal passed through on his way to sack Rome. At the time of the Christians, the mythical Templars settle on the isthmus where there was an Arab strongholg. Between 1294 and 1307 the present templar castle was built upon the remains of the Arab citadel.
In this aereal view you can apreciate the stategic location of the old city. The tides used to close the road that connected the walled city to the mainland. The new city of Peniscola is built along the north beach. The hill in the foreground is called Cerro Mar. Las Atalayas is located just north of Cerro Mar.
LA COSTA DEL AZAHAR
THE ORANGE BLOSSOM COAST
The old city quarters are a visitor delight. Antique shops, artist studios, pottery stores line the streets. There are many bars and outdoor restaurants. Pubs and clubs are open all night for those brave enough.
Peñiscola has a population of 5,500 inhabitants. Yet the summer population swells to well over 75,000 persons. June, July, August and September are the peak months. Our favorite time is March through May, October and November. Yet in the dead of winter we have enjoyed temperatures in the 60,s on a daily basis. December, January and February are quiet but many couples like the peace and rent for a month at the time. Most of the tourists are german, french and english.
