6 Surprising Facts About Benidorm, Spain
We’ve all heard plenty about Benidorm over the years. From turquoise waters and an iconic beach to a popular British tv show, there’s no end to why this Spanish seaside resort has shot to fame.
But that doesn’t mean there isn’t a thing or two we can still learn about this unique Mediterranean location. And with that in mind, we’ve written this short article.
Keep reading to learn six surprising facts about Benidorm.
1. Battleground of the Bikini Revolution
Shortly after the bikini was banned in Spain, Benidorm’s mayor – Pedro Zaragoza – recognised the importance of bikinis in attracting tourists to the town’s beaches. So, in the face of public disapproval, he took the brave decision to sign a municipal order that would allow beachgoers to wear bikinis in Benidorm in 1959.
Naturally, this caused a significant amount of uproar. The Spanish Civil Guard was tasked with ensuring that Benidorm’s sun lovers stayed covered. But again, Zaragoza did battle – winning over General Francisco Franco, Spain’s military leader at that time. And the people of Benidorm have been enjoying bikinis ever since.
2. Part Spanish, part British
The epitome of the European package holiday, Benidorm attracts several million visitors per year – making up a significant portion of Spain’s tourism traffic.
But this unique destination is particularly loved by the UK. In fact, data published by Statista shows that Brits make up more than three-quarters of international tourists staying in Benidorm hotels.
3. Home of skyscrapers
Believe it or not, the Spanish city with the most skyscrapers isn’t Barcelona or even Madrid. You guessed it – it’s Benidorm.
The tallest is Intempo, a 47-floor, 202-metre-high building with two parallel towers connected by a cone-shaped structure at the top.
4. From humble beginnings
It may be known for being a bustling tourist destination now. But not too long ago, Benidorm was a quiet little fishing village.
When the local mayor wanted to strengthen the local economy, he began implementing tourism-oriented changes – paving the way for the Benidorm we know and love today.
5. Spain’s first package holiday resort
Benidorm revolutionised European holidaymaking. From its unique layout tailored towards great views and proximity to the beach to the many options for Alicante airport to Benidorm transfers, everything about Benidorm has tourists in mind.
In fact, many people credit Benidorm as being the birthplace of the package holiday.
6. An unrivalled climate
The Costa Blanca – the famed stretch of coastline that Benidorm sits on – enjoys one of the world’s healthiest climates.
With the vast majority of the year spent in the sunshine and a unique micro-climate sheltered from the wind, it’s no wonder why so many people flock there each year.
Wrapping up
There’s no end to the surprises and delights this Costa Blanca town offers – what’s your favourite fact about Benidorm? Tell us in the comments section!
