A walk through history

JAVEA’S old town is a perfectly preserved relic of the past, exuding a rustic charm that is all too rare in today’s world.

Dating back to medieval times, its buildings are a patchwork of historic architecture spanning seven centuries.

Today’s old town is distinguished by its narrow lanes adorned with white façades and gothic windows alongside its distinctive tosca sandstone. The beating heart of the town was once dedicated to the rai - sin trade, and its ornate raisin drying facilities still remain in the form of sandstone partitions and galleries with large ulls, which would shelter the grapes on thatched mats to dry. Indeed, to walk through the old town is to dip one’s toe into a rich mercantile history.

In the 13th century, Javea was but a small enclosure sealed in by city walls but the 16th and 17th centuries gave rise to the construction of Javea’s most inspired architecture, with gothic buildings such as the Palau dels Sapena and the Casa dels Bolufer.

There is a nice range of small shops and restaurants to stop at, including the excellent Irish-Romanian-run place, La Sucreria, right by the main church. Also look out for the recently opened Carniceria tapas bar, on the outskirts of the centre. Make sure to look out for its ancient market, now converted into a gourmet hall, perfect for lunch or supper. Needless to say Javea’s old town retains an allure that has wowed visitors for centuries and long may it continue.

VillaMia, established over 15 years ago, offers the complete property service. With an office in Jávea we cover sales, long term rentals, winter lets and property management in the coastal towns of Jávea, Moraira, Denia and the surrounding areas.

Villa Mia guides you to the top Costa Blanca weekly street markets

BUYING local goods and produce to support local traders is a very laudable reason to visit Costa Blanca street markets.

The chance to shop in the open air and the range of stalls selling everything from pottery to shoes are also super reasons to go to the weekly markets.

There are some great bargains to be had, and we always end up buying more than on our original shopping list.

Most towns and villages hold a weekly market, but these are our favourite Costa Blanca markets within a 30-minute drive of our Jávea office.

Most are open from around 8am to 1.30pm or 12pm. Go early to avoid the crowds and also the heat in the summer months.

Alternatively, head to the market for an early lunch, as traders often sell snacks, including churros with chocolate.

Weekly Market In J Vea Old Town

Where better to start than Javea’s very own market. From food to footwear, there are plenty of goods to be found at the Thursday market in the Plaza de la Constitucion. You’ll find more than 100 stalls selling fruit, vegetables, sausages, cheese, clothes, shoes, bags, belts, flowers and plants, household items, sweets and more.

You can easily make a whole morning of it because there are plenty of places to stop for lunch in the old town.

The indoor market is a few minutes away in a lovely old building in Plaza Celestino Pons for more fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, fish, and bread.

MORAIRA MARKET

Every Friday morning, the large car park in Ctra Moraira-Calpe in the centre of town becomes a lively outdoor market. For the