New Santa Barbara Castle exhibition celebrates 3,000 years of Alicante wine

Wine lovers can discover the rich history of Alicante’s winemaking tradition at a new exhibition now open at Santa Barbara Castle. Featuring original illustrations and tracing more than three millennia of wine production, the free display celebrates one of the province’s best-known industries while offering visitors the chance to enjoy regular wine tastings.

Exhibition explores Alicante’s wine heritage

Wine lovers can explore more than 3,000 years of Alicante’s winemaking heritage at a new exhibition now open at Santa Barbara Castle.

The exhibition, 3,000 Years of Alicante Wine Culture, has returned to the provincial capital after touring several municipalities and will remain in the castle’s parade ground until January 2027.

Through a series of striking illustrations, the exhibition traces the story of Alicante wine from its earliest origins with ancient civilisations through to its present-day status as one of Spain’s best-known wine-producing regions.

The artwork has been created by National Illustration Prize winner Miguel Calatayud, alongside illustrators Erre Galvez and Paula Alenda, who bring key moments in the province’s rich wine history to life.

History, art and wine tasting combined

The exhibition has been organised by the Alicante Protected Designation of Origin (DOP Alicante) and was officially opened by Alicante’s Tourism councillor Ana Poquet and DOP Alicante manager Eladio Martin. Representatives from Esatur, which manages tourism activities at Santa Barbara Castle, also attended the launch.

As well as discovering the history of local winemaking, visitors will be able to sample some of the region’s best wines during weekly tasting sessions held throughout the exhibition. The tastings will showcase wines produced under the DOP Alicante label.

Admission to both the exhibition and the castle display area is free.

The exhibition offers visitors the opportunity to explore the close relationship between Alicante’s history, culture and wine production in one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. By combining historical storytelling, contemporary illustration and local wine tasting, it provides a unique insight into a tradition that has shaped the province for more than 3,000 years.