the Mediterranean Sea. It is a huge calcareous rock, joined to the mainland by a detritic isthmus. With a
protected surface area of just 45 hectares, Penon de Ifach is one of the smallest nature reserves in Europe.
Despite its size, the reserve attracts approximately 100,000 visitors each year.
History of Penon de Ifach
Throughout history, Penon de Ifach has served several purposes. In the 4th to 3rd centuries before Christ,
there was an Iberian village at the foot of the rock, on its western side. Later, in Roman times, the settlement
moved to the isthmus joining the rock to the mainland, though findings confirm that the sides of the rock were once
again inhabited throughout the Middle Ages.
Penon de Ifach once served as a landmark for mariners. It was then used as a watchtower, with its lofty height of
332m providing a superb vantage point to spot approaching pirates and invaders. Despite best efforts,
continuing attacks from the sea forced inhabitants down to the village of Calpe.
Originally, the municipality of Calpe owned Penon de Ifach. However, in 1872, it became privately owned.
After having several different private owners, it was purchased by the Generalitat Valenciana Authority,
before being declared a nature reserve in 1987.
