Local information: Dolores

Location

Dolores is situated in the Vega Baja region of Alicante. 4 km from Almoradi and 4 km from Catral. Its excellent location gives easy access to various main towns including Torrevieja, Murcia, Alicante, Cartagena and Elche.

This charming town in Alicante has earned the respect and recognition of tourists for its agricultural culture and superb quality of life. Its fertile land produces exquisite fruit and agricultural products for exportation and local sales. In the restaurants and bars of the area you can enjoy real delicacies.

History

Dolores was founded in 1715 by Cardinal Belluga, the Bishop of Cartagena. He was given approx. 40,000 m2 of land by the town halls of Guardamar and Orihuela to start a town. This was done with the approval of King Philipi V to establish the area for agricultural purposes, because prior to this Dolores was marsh land. On 16th August 1737, the first stone of the church was laid. In 1795 the village had only 645 inhabitants, now it boasts between 6,500 & 7,000. In 1850 Dolores comprised of just 700 houses, situated on 6 streets,3 squares, 2 schools and l church. By 1930, 200 years after Dolores was founded, it boasted 3541 inhabitants.

Currently, Dolores has 7,500 inhabitants who are happy to live in one of the best climates in the world. The population has experienced a great change with the expansion of sports infrastructures and buildings: modern flats, villas with swimming pool and garden, country houses with views of nature...

Fiestas

Easter

Good Friday is celebrated as one of the most important Fiestas on the Calendar. The Easter weekend is celebrated with many processions making this a Spectacular weekend.

August

The first week of this month for 4 days include a funfair, theatre and dance, fair of various tapas (more than 50 varieties), acrobats, Medieval market etc. Not to be missed.

September

This fiesta for the Patron Saint of Dolores was first started in 1735. It is celebrated In the third week of this month, on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. One of the most important days is when the townsfolk bring tributes of flowers for the Saint, which are placed around the door of the local church. There is also "Bando de la huerta" which is where a town court jester relays the comings and goings of the town and its inhabitants. There is also the usual food, music, dance and processions, which accompany every fiesta in Spain.