Bocairent

A medieval town clinging to a cliff face, with prehistoric cave dwellings (the Covetes dels Moros) carved into the rock below. A Moorish bullring — Spain's oldest — is carved entirely out of the rock.

In the mountains between Valencia and Alcoi, Bocairent is bypassed by the main routes despite having one of the most extraordinary cave complexes in Spain.

History

Bocairent, a captivating village in the Valencian Community, is a labyrinth of steep, winding streets, staircases, and historic buildings carved into the rock face of the Serra de Mariola. Its origins are ancient, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Bronze Age, but its current character is largely shaped by its Moorish past. The terraced layout of its old quarter, El Barri Vell, reflects the influence of Islamic urban planning, adapted to the challenging topographic conditions.

One of Bocairent's most distinctive features is 'Les Covetes dels Moros' (The Little Moorish Caves), a complex of over 50 cave dwellings excavated into a vertical rock wall, believed to have been a large granary or columbarium from the 10th or 11th century. Another unique historical gem is Spain's oldest bullring, dating from 1843, which is also partially excavated from the rock. This blend of natural landscape and human endeavor makes Bocairent a profound example of medieval architectural adaptation and cultural heritage.

Highlights

• Covetes dels Moros (50+ cave dwellings in cliff)
• Oldest bullring in Spain carved from rock
• Medieval old town on cliff edge
• Natural caves and ice wells

How to get there

From Valencia city, Bocairent is about 95 km south. Take the A-7 motorway towards Alicante, then exit onto the CV-81. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Explore nearby: Valencian Community guide · Valencia province · Castles of Valencia