This story belongs to local folklore. Its legendary characters and events are not presented as established historical facts.
Below Santa Bárbara Castle, the rocky outline of Mount Benacantil resembles a face. Popularly called the Cara del Moro, or Moor's Face, it has inspired tales of impossible love. The silhouette belongs to the landscape; its accompanying stories belong to popular tradition and exist in different versions.
Cántara, Alí and the caliph's decision
The castle's website recounts a version in which Cántara loves Alí, but her father promises her to Almanzor after a challenge. The tragic ending leaves the father turned to stone. The tale also connects the lovers' names with Alicante; that association belongs to the legend, not to an etymology established by this guide.
Distinguish the tale from the fortress
Santa Bárbara occupies Benacantil's summit and helps explain the relationship between the city, port and their defence. For its material history, use heritage interpretation and the monument's displays. For the legend, enjoy finding a face in the mountain without turning its characters into documented residents of the castle.
A walk between the coast and the old town
Start by looking at the profile from the Postiguet area and combine the stop with the old-town streets. If you add a castle visit, check current access, lift operation and visitor arrangements. The perspective changes as you move: look for the silhouette from public spaces and respect closed areas.
Before your visit.
Does the legend explain Alicante's actual name?
It is presented here as a popular explanation within the tale. It should not be cited as proof of the historical origin of the city's name.
Must I climb to the castle to recognise the face?
The outline is viewed from below. Visiting the castle is a separate plan, rewarding for its spaces and views; check its arrangements before organising it.
Check the official sources.
Before travelling, check current notices, access arrangements, reservations and programmes with these sources.
- Castillo de Santa Bárbara · Información y versión de la leyenda ↗
- Ayuntamiento de Alicante · Castillo de Santa Bárbara: patrimonio cultural ↗
- Ayuntamiento de Alicante · Guía del castillo y leyenda de la Cara del Moro ↗
