Benissa Pueblo: Church, Market, Fiestas & Old Town Charm

Benissa might be famous for its coastline, but the real soul of this town lives in its historic centre. Think narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed houses with wrought iron balconies, and a slow rhythm that hasn’t changed in decades. Add in one of the region’s most impressive churches and a calendar full of fiestas — and you’ve got the perfect reason to spend a day (or more) exploring inland.

Whether you’re into history, culture, or just want to see a more authentic side of the Costa Blanca, Benissa Pueblo is worth the detour.

🌴 Quick Facts about Benissa Pueblo

• 🏰 Town founded: 13th century

• 🕍 Main landmark: Iglesia de la Puríssima Xiqueta

• 🎉 Major fiesta: Festes Patronals in April

• 🛍 Weekly market: Saturdays, from 8:00 to 13:30

• 🚶 Explore: Best on foot — wear comfy shoes!

🏰 The Old Town of Benissa: A Walk Through History

Benissa’s historic centre is beautifully preserved and blissfully quiet. Walk around and you’ll find Gothic townhouses, ancient door knockers, and tiled murals tucked into alleyways. The whole centre is pedestrian-friendly, and you’ll likely have it mostly to yourself outside of fiestas.

Local tip: Start your walk at the Placeta de l’Església Vella and follow the signs toward the Carrer Desamparats — one of the prettiest streets in town.

🕍 Iglesia de la Puríssima Xiqueta: The Cathedral of the Marina Alta

This striking neo-Gothic church towers over the town and is often called the “Cathedral of the Marina Alta” — despite Benissa’s modest size. It was built in 1902 and remains the centrepiece of town life.

Inside, you’ll find beautiful stained-glass windows, a baroque organ, and peaceful silence — unless it’s fiesta season, when the square outside fills with music and colour.

🛍 Saturday Market in Benissa

Every Saturday morning, the town comes alive with a classic Spanish street market. You’ll find local produce, cured meats, fresh bread, clothes, and all the odds and ends you’d expect from a proper local market.

Our tip: Pair your visit with a coffee at a terrace nearby — and don’t leave without trying the local coca or empanadillas.

👉 After exploring the market, why not head down to the beaches and coves of Benissa Costa for a swim or sunset drink?

🎉 Fiestas in Benissa: More Than Just a Party

Benissa’s calendar is packed with traditions. The most important? The Festes Patronals in honour of la Puríssima Xiqueta, which take place every April. Think giant parades, firework shows, music, street dinners, and a whole lot of community pride.

Other key fiestas:

• Medieval Market (January or February): the old town transforms for a weekend of history and crafts.

• Moors and Christians (June): costumes, mock battles, and processions through town.

• San Antonio Abad (January): blessing of the animals and local food stalls.

Local tip: The fiestas aren’t just for show — they’re full of emotion, tradition, and family ties. If you’re in town during April, don’t miss the floral offering or the parades of the festeros.

🍷 Don’t Leave Without Trying…

• Mistela: a sweet wine often served after meals

• Cocas saladas: savoury pastries with tuna, onion, or peppers

• Figatells: local meat patties, a bit like mini burgers with spices

✅ Editor’s Conclusion

Benissa Pueblo is the kind of place you don’t stumble upon — you choose to visit. But once you do, it’ll charm you with its authenticity, history, and slower pace of life. Walk its streets, enjoy a market morning, and catch a local fiesta if you can — you’ll leave feeling like you’ve seen the Costa Blanca that most people miss.

Locals say: For the full experience, pair a morning in the old town with an afternoon walk along the Paseo Ecológico trail — it’s the perfect way to see both sides of Benissa.

❓Frequently Asked Questions