One of the many attractions of travelling to Spain is the opportunity to visit some of its numerous picturesque towns. Muro de Alcoy in the province of Alicante makes a perfect destination for those keen to explore more of the country’s interior.
The beautiful town offers the visitor an intriguing mix of natural beauty, cultural wonders and savoury local food. Located in the Sierra de Mariola, Muro de Alcoy makes a good base for hiking, as well as for exploring some of the archaeological sites in its vicinity – such as Cova de Beneito. It also boasts a rich history, which is amply reflected in its architecture and local traditions.
However, the residents of the town are unhappy with its name and have been trying to change it – but so far with little success.
Originally named just Muro, the suffix “de Alcoy” was added by a royal decree in 1916.
Many believe the reason for the name change was to distinguish it from a town in Majorca.
The community is launching a public consultation on whether to change the town’s name back to its original form.
Sergi Silvestre, the town’s councillor for Cultural Heritage, said: “We seek to open a calm and participatory debate about our name, which has never stopped being used by people, but officially we continue to be imposed with a form that we do not feel as our own.”
This could be the third time lucky for the town, as two previous attempts ended in failure.
One of the architectural highlights of the town is the magnificent Renaissance Casa Palacio located on the Palace Square.
Also visible on the square is the El Fumeral, which was once a chimney of an olive oil factory.
Muro is known for its olive trees, many at least one hundred years old and which lie not far from the town and are worth a visit.
Parts of the town’s walls are covered in devotional tiles, a tradition that started in the 18th century and persisted well into the 20th century.
The ceramics depict the saints and professions that give the streets their names.
Like most places in Europe, Muro has its now unique cuisine, that distinguishes it from other towns and regions.
Local specialities include arroz al horno (oven-baked rice), bajoques farcides (stuffed peppers), and Renyos de Masero (tomatoes stuffed with a local mix).