Crevillente

Crevillente:

Crevillente is a small town set inland in the comarca of Baix Vinalopo and lies at the foothills of the Serra de Crevillent in the province of Alicante in Spain. 

Crevillente (also known as Crevillent) has a permanent population of almost 30,000 inhabitants who live in the market town. It is very dry around Crevillente and the vegetation surrounding the town consists mainly of carob trees, almond trees, olive trees and esparto. 

Crevillente is also a major producer of carpets. Historically Crevillente dates back to Roman times. In 1263 during the times of the Reconquista, James I of Aragon captured the city from the Moors and it became part of the kingdom of Valencia. 

At first glance the town of Crevillente simply appears to be a modern industrial town which you might easily pass by however it does have a long and fascinating history and was in fact occupied even before the arrival of the Romans in Spain some 2,000 years ago. 

Early settlements were established by the Iberians and these were extended somewhat when the Romans arrived, though the town did not really develop until the Moorish occupation when agricultural methods enabled the area to be cultivated. 

During the 18th century a carpet industry emerged turning into a significant earner for the town, early carpets were made from esparto grass and were mostly exported.

 In the town today the best sights are to visit the old Town Hall and take a look at the oldest church the Nuestra Senora de Belen, nature lovers can visit the El Hondo Nature Reserve which is close to the town, some nearby villages which may be of interest are Cox, Albatera, Aspe, Callosa de Segura and Hondon de los Frailes, a trip into the city of Elche would also be well rewarded.