ONE of Benidorm’s most iconic attractions has been demolished in search of ancient ruins in the area – which might not even exist anymore.
The Plaza del Castillo, also known as El Castell, is popular with tourists visiting the beach resort.
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Many tourists flock to the plaza, as well as El Mirador del Castillo, which translates as ‘the lookout’.
According to messages posted to a local Facebook group, Benidorm mayor Toni Perez explained: “The actions proposed in this project will allow us to discover the remains under the pavement of the squares, investigate and document them, keeping the most relevant, putting them in value and explaining them to the public.”
Discoveries made in 1993 and in 2014 suggest that the structures of a castle could be found in the area.
The fort in question was thought to have been built in 1325, but was destroyed 200 years ago by cannon fire and could have “completely deteriorated” by now due to environmental factors.
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El Castillo is popular with tourists
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The area is popular with holidaymakers, who take photos along the white balustrades that look out over the Mediterranean sea.
Tracy Ann Essex, who runs a Benidorm Facebook Group, told The Olive Press that people were “devastated” that it had been destroyed.
She added that some families even come back “every year” for photographs together.
Facebook users shared their sadness, with one saying: “How sad such a lovely area we fly out to Benidorm today and that was one of places we loved to visit.”
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Another remarked: “How could they do that to such a beautiful place it holds so many wonderful memories of my late husband and I.”
One person said: “I’m gutted to read this. Was excited to take my other half for the first time and show him the views.”
Thankfully, the plaza will be rebuilt by November, according to plans.
A spokesperson confirmed to the Olive Press that it would be put built in the “same aesthetic” as it was before.
Sad Brits can still have some fun in Benidorm, as it is home to one of the largest water slides in the world.
The new ride recently opened at the famous Aqualandia theme park.
However, boozy Brits need to be careful this summer with some resorts banning tourists who get too drunk.
