From Alicante to Novelda, where the spirit of Gaudi lives

What to Expect

A Catalan Modernism style temple
Arriving in Novelda, you will visit the St. Mary Magdalene church located atop La Mola mountain. It is an architectural fantasy inspired by Gaudi's legendary work - The Sagrada Familia. I will tell you about the builder and introduce you to the stylistic details of the Catalan modernism world. You will explore walls made of large boulders, two airy towers, and unique facades adorned with river stones, polychrome tiles, and skilled brickwork. Inside the church, you will see an altar with columns, a sculpture of the patron saint, and expressive biblical paintings. Special attention will be given to the unique organ, crafted from red marble, the sound of which you can appreciate during the tour.

Ruins of an Arab fortress
Next, I will guide you to the remains of the Castillo-de-la-Mola fortress, built by the Moors in the 12th century. You will learn about the history of the fortification and see the only triangular tower in Europe. Climbing a spiral staircase to the observation deck, you will enjoy impressive views of the Vinalopo River valley with mountains, quarries, vineyards, saffron and artichoke plantations, as well as almond and olive groves. Moreover, from here, you will have a great view of the St. Mary Magdalene church from its best angle.

Historical center and the world of bourgeois modernism
While strolling through the alleys of the Old Town, you will hear historical notes about the 12th-century town hall with a wrought-iron bell tower and the ancient Saint Peter's church in Baroque style. Contemplating the magnificent mansions from the late 19th to early 20th centuries, you will immerse yourself in the world of bourgeois modernism in Spain. Near the most famous house - Casa Modernista - we will discuss the former residence of Senora Antonia Navarro and her role in spreading modernism in Novelda. The luxurious interior dominated by noble wood and polychrome stucco will transport you to the refined atmosphere of the bourgeoisie at the beginning of the 20th century. The colonnade of the inner courtyard, the banquet hall, the dining room with large nymph canvases, mosaic floors, and floral stained glass windows make this house the "Pearl of Valencian Modernism"!