Ibero-Roman Sanctuary of “La Malladeta”

The Ibero-Roman Sanctuary of La Malladeta is situated on a spectacular coastal promontory next to Paradís Beach. This site, known as Tossal de la Malladeta, offers extraordinary panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline, from the Cape of Santa Pola to the Serra Gelada in Benidorm, and is one of the most important archaeological sites in the Marina Baixa region.

An Iberian sanctuary once stood on this site, founded in the 4th century B.C., likely dedicated to the Mother Goddess, identified with the Carthaginian goddess Tanit. Archaeological excavations have uncovered statuettes, incense burners, and various structures linked to the religious cult practiced both at the summit and on the slopes of the hill.

Around 100 B.C., the sanctuary underwent extensive renovation and reorganization, with rooms and terraced levels built into the hillside; fourteen of these structures have been documented and are visible today through various interpretive panels. Archaeological research, carried out by a Franco-Spanish project in collaboration with the Villajoyosa City Council and the University of Alicante, continues to yield new information about this important religious center, much of which remains unexcavated.

The site retained its sacred character during the early days of the Roman Empire, although it was permanently abandoned around 80 A.D., likely coinciding with the transfer of the cult to the forum of the Roman city of Allon. La Malladeta also holds significant archaeoastronomical value, as during the equinoxes the sunrise aligns with the island of Benidorm, a phenomenon used by the Iberians to mark the beginning of the agricultural calendar.

Currently standing atop the hill is the Malladeta Tower, a 19th-century structure associated with Dr. José María Esquerdo. Today, the entire area offers a pleasant scenic and cultural tour along the Mediterranean coast.