Tibi: Festivals, History and Routes

Tibi brings together recurring festival traditions, historic buildings and routes of varying lengths. The Pantano de Tibi also tells the story of the water supply. Depending on whether you are interested in local history, nature or a particular festival date, you can give your trip a different focus.

Nature and Routes in Tibi

Tibi is located within the protected landscape area of Serra del Maigmó i Serra del Sit. This is an important natural area in the Mediterranean mountains, with numerous habitats as well as plant and animal species. The landscape is therefore a subject in its own right, alongside the town’s historic sites and traditions.

The Pantano de Tibi is another notable chapter in the town’s history: construction began in 1580 and was completed in 1594. The reservoir stores river water for the Huerta de Alicante. The L’ull de la Font route explores Tibi’s special historical relationship with water, including its water channels and the history of the Pantano.

Different information is available for different routes. The Ruta A L’Aljub runs from Balcón de Alicante to the l’Aljub residential area. It is described as a moderate route, with a one-way distance of 2.5 kilometres and an elevation gain of 305 metres; trail conditions may change. La Villa de Tibi is an 8.5-kilometre circular route with a stated duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes and a moderate difficulty level. Seasonal conditions may vary. Both routes are described as moderate, but only La Villa has a stated duration here; for A L’Aljub, the one-way distance and elevation gain are the specific reference points.

Other destinations reveal different aspects of the town: the Ruta Castillo leads to Castillo de Tibi, a medieval fortress with panoramic views of the region. The Ruta Casco runs on foot through the old town and to viewpoints offering panoramic views. This distinguishes a town route leading to a fortress, a walk through the old town and a route focused on Tibi’s water history.

Festivals Throughout the Year

The centuries-old Entrà de les Vaques takes place from 21 to 25 July in honour of Saint Mary Magdalene, Tibi’s patron saint. It is recognised as a Fiesta de Interés Turístico Local. Its roots lie in the transhumance of fighting bulls; originally, it was associated with driving the cows from the river into town. The patron saint festivities in honour of Saint Mary Magdalene also take place in Tibi from 20 to 25 July, and their history dates back to the 15th century.

In January, the winter festivities Danzas de reinados moro y cristiano are part of the annual festival calendar. They include the Reinado Cristiano and Reinado Moro groups, traditional dances, music played on the charamita and drum, and the Subasta de Tonyes. The Feria Tradicional de Artesanía y Oficios de Tibi takes place on the penultimate weekend in October and showcases local crafts and typical products.

Traditions also have a firm place later in the year: Les Aixames, also known as Rodà d’aixames, takes place on the evening of 24 December. People gather at Plaça d’Espanya and walk through the town streets in small groups. The pilgrimage to Casa de la Pedrera takes place on the Saturday closest to 28 November. It commemorates the discovery of the Sagrada Forma Incorrupta and is held in honour of Nostre Senyor Trobat. If you are travelling for a festival, check the dates for that year’s event in advance.

Buildings and Stories Passed Down Through Generations

Local tradition associates the Ermita de Santa María Magdalena with an apparition of Saint Mary Magdalene to Juana Amat on 9 July 1445. A branch from the olive tree associated with this story is kept in the Camerino. Castillo de Tibi is believed to have Arab origins; the fortress was a strategic communication point between the interior and the coast. On 28 December 2000, it was protected as a Bien de Interés Cultural in the Monument category.

The Parroquia de Santa María Magdalena dates from the 18th century. Its bell tower may have Arab origins. Together with the castle, the hermitage and routes through the old town, the church offers another way to explore Tibi’s architectural and local history.

Visiting and Planning Your Trip

The Tourist Info Tibi is located at Plaza d’Espanya 1 in Tibi, 03109. Confirm its current opening status before visiting. If you are looking for a hotel for a trip to Tibi, the occasion can help you plan your timing: a festival date, historic buildings or a route will each give your trip a different focus.

Discover more destinations: Beniardá, Muntanya de la Sella, La Vall d'Ebo, Aigües, Tàrbena, Guardamar Del Segura, Ibi, El Ràfol d'Almúnia.

Go to the main travel overview: Alicante.