As the sun sets over the Mediterranean and Halloween approaches, the Costa Blanca reveals a darker, more mysterious side—one filled with chilling legends, ghostly whispers, and crumbling castles rumoured to be cursed. Beyond the sun-soaked beaches and bustling expat towns lies a hidden history of hauntings and tales passed down through generations. Here are some of the most haunted locations and stories from Spain’s southern coast.
Castillo de Santa Barbara (Alicante): The Moorish Princess’ Ghost.
Perched high above Alicante, the Castillo de Santa Barbara provides breathtaking views—and, if legends are true, an eerie presence. Locals talk about La Encantada, the ghost of a Moorish princess who roams the castle in search of her lost love. Her sombre figure is said to appear during full moons, especially around Halloween, haunting the rocky paths beneath the keep. The castle’s long history of war, imprisonment, and torture contributes to its eerie reputation.
La Casa de la Bruja (Polop de la Marina): The Witches’ House
A ruined farmhouse tucked into the hills near Polop, known by locals as La Casa de la Bruja (The Witch’s House), is said to have once belonged to an 18th-century witch. According to legend, strange lights and unexplainable sounds still surround the crumbling walls at night. Some claim to have seen black cats appear and vanish, while others report that the nearby olive trees twist abnormally under the full moon.
Orihuela’s Haunted Cathedral Quarter
Orihuela’s old town is famous for its religious architecture, but behind the baroque facade lies a history of strange occurrences. Locals have reported seeing a shadowy figure dressed in monk’s robes appear silently and disappear into stone walls at the Cathedral of El Salvador and Santa Marina. Some believe it is the spirit of a tormented priest from the Inquisition period. Wandering the alleyways at dusk, you can almost feel history closing in on you.
Benissa Cemetery: A Restless Silence
By day, Benissa’s cemetery is peaceful and immaculate. Locals have reported seeing flickering lanterns and footsteps on gravel paths after dark, particularly near the old mausoleum. Visitors have reported cold gusts of wind on calm nights, as well as an unusual air pressure that made them feel watched. Whether through superstition or spirit, it is a place that commands respect after the sun has set.
Cova Tallada (Javea-Denia): Cursed Sea Cave
The legend surrounding the Cova Tallada cave, which is partially submerged beneath the cliffs between Javea and Denia, runs as deep as the sea. It was built by hand centuries ago to extract stone for royal palaces, but it’s also rumoured to be a smuggler’s hideout—and a trap for the spirits of those killed in failed secret deals. Some divers have reported feeling pulled down by unseen hands. The sea offers little explanation.
Halloween on Haunted Ground
Whether you believe in ghosts or simply enjoy a good story, the Costa Blanca is full of shadows that contradict the sunshine. As Halloween approaches, these stories become more than just folklore; they are invitations to explore the mysterious heart of the region.
There are plenty of spooky places to visit this season, including castles, caves, haunted houses, and holy sites. Just don’t forget your torch!
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