Alicante is the setting for this round, where the map is the real city and the ball rolls across its actual streets. The holes are built from real attractions, such as the Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari. Skip is a local guide who knows these sidewalks and every crumb on them. This full 18-hole round covers 11 km, using 16 portals to move the ball between distant parts of the city.
The Cocatedral de Sant Nicolau de Bari in Alicante began in 1616. This Catholic parish church, monument, and co-cathedral was designed by architect Agustín Bernardino in the Renaissance architecture style. It is part of the Diocese of Orihuela-Alicante and is recognized as a bien de interés cultural. The status of the building changed on 9 March 1959, when Pope John XXIII elevated the church to the title of cathedral. You can see the influence of the Renaissance style in the structure of this historic site.
The Ocean Race Museo is a museum located here in Alicante. This site is dedicated to the stories and the trials of those who navigate the world's oceans. According to the records, the inception of the museum was in 2012. When you visit, you can see how the city connects to the maritime world. I personally think the walk toward the waterfront is one of the best parts of the trip, as the salt air always keeps me feeling fresh and alert while I'm guiding you around.
Let me show you the Museo de la Lonja del Pescado. This site was started in 1917 and is designed in the style of historicist architecture. You can pick out how the building handles its dual identity, as it is both a fish auction and an art gallery. I find it a bit funny that you can appreciate fine art and the local fish trade in the same spot. It is a unique destination for anyone wanting to see how the city manages its traditions and its exhibitions under one roof.
Look first at the water of the fountain, then look around at the wider space of the square. This is Plaça dels Estels, a spot in the city that is both a square and a fountain. Work on this location was started in 1923. I find it a relaxing place to pause for a moment while you are out and about, especially when you want to step away from the busier roads. It is a simple, open space that lets you appreciate the local atmosphere while you take in the sights of the neighborhood.
Let me show you Castell de Sant Ferran. It is a castle and a monument that holds the official designation of bien de interés cultural. You can pick out the scale of the fortifications as you walk the grounds and explore the layout of the site. It is a place that represents the history of the area through its architecture and its status as a protected cultural asset. I've found that the high walls make for a great view of the surrounding area, which is a nice spot to pause for a moment before you continue your journey through the city.
Església de Maria Auxiliadora is a Catholic parish church. This building is a parish church that serves the local community. It is officially designated as a Property of Local Relevance, marking its significance to the neighborhood. Visitors can observe the architecture of this Catholic parish church as it stands as a place of worship and a Property of Local Relevance within the city of Alicante.
Iglesia Nuestra Señora de Gracia is a church building. It is recognized as a Property of Local Relevance, which means it is a site of specific importance to the people and the heritage of Alicante. Visitors to the area can find this building used for religious purposes. Because it is a Property of Local Relevance, it is a point of interest for those who want to understand the local character and the architectural presence of faith within the city streets.
Located in the city of Alicante, Ermita de Santa Cruz is a hermitage church. This site is designated as a Property of Local Relevance, meaning it holds a specific significance for the people and the history of the immediate area. As you visit this place of worship, you can observe how the hermitage church fits into the local surroundings. It remains a point of interest for visitors who want to see the various religious sites found throughout the city.
This site is not a recent addition to the city skyline. The Basílica de Santa María is a Catholic parish church, a monument, and a minor basilica. It is the oldest active church in Alicante, Spain, and was built over the remains of a mosque. Constructed between the 14th and 16th centuries, the building is an example of Valencian Gothic style. It is officially recognized as a bien de interés cultural. You can see how these different historical layers and architectural choices define the presence of the church within the city.
Let me show you the Teatro Principal. This theatre building is a Property of Local Relevance that had its inception in 1847. When you look at the facade, you can see it is designed in the Neoclassical architecture style, which gives the structure its distinct and formal appearance. I have noticed that the clean lines of the building make it a great landmark to spot from a distance while you are navigating the streets. It is a place where the city's architectural history is visible to everyone passing by.
Let me show you Teatre Arniches, located here in the city of Alicante. This site is a theatre building. It is a point of interest for those exploring the local architecture and performing arts scene. I have noticed that the building stands out quite clearly to those passing by on the street.
Green leaves and open air define this spot in the city. I can show you Parc de Canalejas, which is a park. It is a place to stop and enjoy the outdoors while you are exploring the local area. I find it is a nice spot to stretch your legs.
Plaça de Gabriel Miró is a square and a park. This area provides a blend of open plaza and green parkland for people to visit, making it a distinct part of the city. Whether you are looking for the structure of a square or the nature of a park, this location offers both. I find it is a pleasant place to pause during a walk through the city. It is the kind of spot where you can appreciate the contrast between the paved areas and the greenery of the park.
Let me show you Ícaro. This piece is a sculpture located here in Alicante. It is a notable point of interest for visitors exploring the city's public art.
Let me show you the statue of Eleuterio Maisonnave. This monument is a key point of interest in the city and is recognized as a statue. When you are visiting this area, you can pick out the figure against the backdrop of the surrounding streets. It is a simple but significant piece of the city's public art.
Let me show you the Plaza de Toros de Alicante. This bullring was started in 1847 and is recognized as a BIE. It is also a Property of Local Relevance to the city. While you are visiting, you can pick out the specific architectural details that define this second-class bullring. I have found that the open air of the arena makes for a great view of the surrounding streets, though I usually prefer the view from the roof. It is a significant spot for anyone wanting to see how the city handles its traditional events.
You will first notice the open greenery of Parc del Tossal. This place is a park, making it a spot for visitors to find some nature within the city. I find it a pleasant place to stretch your legs.
Estadio José Rico Pérez is a multi-purpose stadium located 2 miles outside Alicante city centre. Built in 1974, the venue is named after José Rico Pérez, who was a former chairman of Hércules CF. The club still calls this stadium home today. With a capacity of 24,704 seats, it is the 25th-largest stadium in Spain. I've noticed the crowd energy here is always something to see, and the size of the place is impressive when you see it up close. It is a major hub for the city's sporting life and a great spot to observe the local passion for the game.