Tibi’s history can be seen through two particularly distinct themes: how water has been managed and the town’s festival traditions. There are also routes leading to a medieval fortress, through the old town or to viewpoints. You can tailor your stay to culture, scenery or a particular occasion.

Festivals Throughout the Year

The Entrà de les Vaques is a centuries-old tradition in Tibi. It takes place from 21 to 25 July in honour of Saint Mary Magdalene, the town’s patron saint, and is recognised as a Fiesta de Interés Turístico Local. Its roots lie in the transhumance of fighting bulls: originally, the cows were driven from the river into the town.

The patron saint festivities in honour of Saint Mary Magdalene take place from 20 to 25 July; their history dates back to the 15th century. Another date in the festival calendar falls in January: the winter festivals, Danzas de reinados moro y cristiano, include the Reinado Cristiano and Reinado Moro groups, traditional dances, music with charamita and drum, and the Subasta de Tonyes.

There are also set events at other times of the year: the Feria Tradicional de Artesanía y Oficios de Tibi takes place on the penultimate weekend in October and showcases local crafts and typical products. The pilgrimage to Casa de la Pedrera is held on the Saturday closest to 28 November. It commemorates the discovery of the Sagrada Forma Incorrupta and honours Nostre Senyor Trobat. On the evening of 24 December, people gather at Plaça d’Espanya for Les Aixames, also called Rodà d’aixames, before walking through the streets in small groups. Check the latest festival programmes and dates when planning your trip.

Waterworks and Historic Buildings

Construction of the Pantano de Tibi began in 1580 and was completed in 1594. The reservoir stores river water for the Huerta de Alicante. This water heritage is also explored on the Ruta L’ull de la Font, whose historical focus is Tibi’s relationship with water, its waterways and the history of the Pantano.

Another way to explore the town’s history is to visit Castillo de Tibi. The Ruta Castillo leads to the medieval fortress, which offers panoramic views of the region. The Castillo is believed to have Arab origins and also served as a strategic communication point between the inland area and the coast. Since 28 December 2000, it has been protected as a Bien de Interés Cultural in the Monument category.

Religious buildings and local traditions also shape the town’s historic character. The Parroquia de Santa María Magdalena dates from the 18th century; the bell tower is believed to have a possibly Arab origin. According to local tradition, Saint Mary Magdalene appeared to Juana Amat on 9 July 1445. A branch from the olive tree associated with this story is kept in the Camerino of the Ermita de Santa María Magdalena.

Routes for Different Interests

The Ruta Casco runs on foot through the old town and continues to viewpoints with panoramic views. If you want to plan around a specific distance and elevation gain, these details are available for the A L’Aljub route: it runs from Balcón de Alicante to the l’Aljub housing development and is listed as a moderately difficult, 2.5-kilometre one-way route with 305 metres of elevation gain.

Another option is La Villa de Tibi, a moderately difficult circular route covering 8.5 kilometres, with a stated duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes. The measurements offer different planning details: La Villa lists a duration, while A L’Aljub specifies the one-way distance and elevation gain. Compare these details with the time you have set aside for your outing. Trail conditions can change seasonally, so check them before setting off.

Landscape and Orientation

Tibi is located in 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 and plant and animal species. Together with its waterworks and buildings, the landscape offers another perspective on the town: alongside festivals and cultural heritage, you can also include nature and routes in your plans.

The Tourist Info Tibi is located at Plaza d’Espanya 1, Tibi, 03109. Check its current operating status before visiting.

Discover more destinations: El Campello, San Miguel De Salinas, Benferri, Benimassot, L'alfàs Del Pi, Villena, La Vall D'alcalà, Sax.

For the wider travel overview: Alicante.