The history of Moraira

Villas for sale in Moraira
8 January 2024

Moraira is a beautiful coastal town located in the province of Alicante, Spain. Its history dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human settlements in the area since prehistoric times.

The town was originally founded by the Iberians, an ancient civilization that inhabited the eastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula. They established a small fishing village in the area, taking advantage of its strategic location on the Mediterranean Sea.

During the Roman era, Moraira prospered as a trading port. The Romans recognized the importance of its natural harbor and developed the town further, building a network of roads and expanding its infrastructure. They also introduced agriculture to the region, cultivating vineyards and olive groves.

In the 8th century, the Moors invaded the Iberian Peninsula and Moraira fell under Muslim rule. The Moors built fortifications to protect the town and established a thriving agricultural economy centered around the production of raisins and almonds. The name "Moraira" is believed to have originated from the Arabic word "mairat," meaning "watchtower."

In the 13th century, Christian forces led by James I of Aragon reconquered the region, bringing an end to the Moors' rule. Moraira became part of the Kingdom of Valencia and its population gradually increased as people relocated from nearby towns and villages.

Over the following centuries, Moraira experienced a relative period of calm, relying mainly on fishing and agriculture for its economy. The town remained relatively isolated until the 19th century, when the construction of a road connecting Moraira to Teulada, its neighbouring municipality, helped facilitate development and trade.

In the 20th century, Moraira began to attract tourists, drawn by its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque landscapes. The town underwent urbanisation and saw the construction of holiday homes and resorts to accommodate the growing number of visitors.

Today, Moraira is a popular tourist destination, known for its charming streets, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural scene. Despite its modern development, the town has managed to retain its traditional Mediterranean charm, with its historic center still featuring whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and an ancient castle overlooking the coast.

The history of Moraira is a testament to its resilience and ability to adapt. From its ancient roots as a fishing village to becoming a thriving tourist destination, the town has continuously evolved while maintaining its unique identity.

Advanced Property Group is a team of real estate agents specialising in the Costa Blanca North (Alicante) with over 30 years of experience in property and with a main office in the centre of Moraira. We pride ourselves on having a good relationship with our clients, core agents and associates on an international level, which enables us to meet the requirements of buyers interested in property in Spain. Specialists in Golden Visa advise 




Image gallery


Properties

© 2024 · Advanced Property Group · Legal · Privacy · Cookies · Web map · Design: Mediaelx

WhatsApp