Orihuela

The Vega Baja del Segura, more commonly known as the Orihuela region, is a fertile and historically significant area in the southern part of Alicante province, Spain. Bordered by Murcia to the south and west, this inland region is characterised by its rich agricultural land, thanks to the Segura River and its tributaries. While not directly on the coast, it’s a short drive away, making it a convenient base for exploring both inland and coastal areas.

Orihuela, the region’s namesake and largest city, boasts a rich history, having been an important Roman and Visigothic settlement before falling under Moorish rule. Its historic centre showcases this diverse past, with notable landmarks like the Orihuela Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and the Episcopal Palace, a grand Baroque structure. The city also plays host to numerous festivals and traditions, reflecting its deep cultural roots.

Beyond Orihuela city, the region is dotted with charming towns and villages, each with its own unique character. Callosa de Segura is known for its marble quarries, while Cox is famous for its cave houses. The landscape is a patchwork of citrus groves, vegetable farms, and orchards, highlighting the region’s agricultural importance. This fertile land produces a variety of crops, including oranges, lemons, vegetables, and pomegranates, contributing significantly to the local economy.

The Vega Baja is also a haven for nature lovers, with several protected areas and natural parks nearby. The Sierra de Orihuela mountains offer hiking trails and stunning views, while the El Hondo Natural Park, a wetland area, is home to diverse birdlife.

While tourism isn’t as prominent as on the coast, the Orihuela region offers a more authentic Spanish experience. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture, enjoy traditional cuisine, and explore the region’s rich history and natural beauty. It’s a destination for those seeking a slower pace of life, a connection to the land, and a deeper understanding of Spanish heritage.

Latest Orihuela News

The Alicante town with the highest car theft rate in 2024

In 2024, 1,366 cars were stolen in Alicante, leaving a long queue of owners around the province who discovered their car had disappeared when they went to collect it. Despite the large number, the Ministry of the Interior’s data shows that it decreased by 4.5% last year, which was significantly more than the 0.7% decline…

February 28, 2025
Alicante’s frost damage: “Lemon prices must rise”

The January cold snap has had a severe effect on lemon trees, according to the agricultural group Asaja. It estimated that it had an impact on about 70,000 tonnes of lemons in the region of Alicante. They therefore request that “lemon prices for farmers should rise.” According to José Vicente Andreu, president of ASAJA Alicante,…

February 27, 2025
Orihuela Medieval Market starts tomorrow

Orihuela is eagerly awaiting the opening of its customary Mediaeval Market, which will transport the town’s ancient old town back in time. With markets, workshops, trades, taverns, tournaments, and dance and music performances, guests can take part in a variety of events that will transport them back to the Middle Ages during the course of…

February 27, 2025
Both domestic and international migration are contributing to the Valencian Community’s ongoing population growth

The “Migration and change of residence statistics” for 2023 have been released by the Generalitat Valenciana’s Statistical Portal, confirming the Comunitat’s continued status as a host nation for both domestic and international migrants. This figure indicates that in 2023, the region’s migration balance was 113,129, while the equivalent balance with foreigners was 102,302. A balance…

February 26, 2025
Two refurbished Dialprix supermarkets in Orihuela Costa and Torrevieja are reopened

After investing one million euros in renovations, Dialprix, a grocery chain located in Elche, has reopened two of its locations in Vega Baja. These are the shops in Torrevieja’s Orihuela Costa and Los Balcones. Based on its new supermarket model, the firm has updated these outlets. The supermarket at Orihuela Costa was the first establishment…

February 24, 2025
When it comes to community health spending, Torrevieja is bottom

The Torrevieja department’s 2023 budget was 218,988,509 euros, which, when divided by the total number of residents, results in 1,026 euros spent on health care per resident. But the actual numbers are different. The sum is lowered to 900 euros when the unregistered population is taken into account. Official figures show that the Valencian Community’s…

February 23, 2025