Biar Spain is located at the foot of the Sierra de Mariola in the Vinalopo Valley in the province of Alicante in south eastern Spain.
The coastal area of Alicante province, Costa Blanca, is only one hour away.
This historical town is guarded by its medieval stone castle.
Biar was formerly known as Apiarum during the Roman occupation of Spain.
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Where is Biar Spain?
Biar is located 39 km inland from the provincial capital of Alicante.
The nearest international airport is also located at the city of Alicante.
(Biar Spain – Google Maps)
Around one hour away, you will find the towns:
You will love this inland town, Biar Spain 
What is the History of Biar?
The earliest known settlement in Biar Spain was by the Romans.
Its location on the borders of of the ancient kingdoms of Castile and Aragon meant it was the topic of several disputes as to who Biar belonged to.
Further battles occurred here during the War of Spanish Succession from 1701-14 and the War of Independence.
General Information about Biar Spain
Biar was called Apiarum by the Romans, this means ‘Beehive’ because at that time it was a major producer of honey.
Although origins to the name have long been questioned as in Arabic the word ‘Apiarum’ means ‘Place of Springs.’
Resorts and cities located close by include Elche, Santa Pola, and Orihuela.
The town today has a population of around 3.600 people and is known for its production of dolls, blankets, forged metal goods and pottery.
What is the Weather like in Spain?
The months of April, May, October and November are the most pleasant with average temperatures of around 20-25C, as in Benidorm.
The warmest months are July, August and September although Biar does not receive the humid intense heat of the coastal resorts due to its being at altitude in the mountains.
The driest months are January, July and August, although even during the wettest month of October the average monthly rainfall is less than 1cm.
August is the hottest month with average temperatures of 31C and during the month of January (the coldest month), the average temperature is 16C, very similar to Alcoy.
What Architecture can be seen in Biar Spain?
The 12th century structures of the walled castle and the Honour Tower are fine examples of Moorish architecture that can be viewed in the town of Biar.
Another ancient structure worth viewing for its architecture is the 15th century parish church.
There are several notable ancient artefacts on display at the town’s Archaeological Museum.
Gastronomy
There is no particular food that can be identified as being from Biar.
The food served here is best described as typically Spanish or from the region of Alicante.
This includes lots of food that is from the sea or grown locally on the fertile plains of this region.
Typical foods will include the staple of rice, fish, seafood and vegetables.
How much does it cost to rent or buy property in Biar?
There are several properties in need of renovation available in Biar from less than 30,000 Euros for large sized properties.
Ready to move in properties include two bedroomed apartments from 38,000.
Three bedroomed houses from 39,000.
Four bedroomed villas from 395,000 Euros.
For a long term rental property in Biar, a two bedroomed apartment could cost around 350 Euros per month.
What are the most Interesting Attractions I should visit in Biar?
Biar Castle
The 12th century castle can be viewed as you approach the town of Biar as it sits commandingly on top of the hill overlooking the town.
It is quite a steep climb up the hill to visit the castle so a good pair of flat shoes is recommended.
The effort of climbing the narrow steeply sloping cobbled streets is worth it just for the views from the top as you look across the Vinalopo Valley.
Honour Tower
The Honour Tower, known locally as the Torre de Homenaje exhibits vaulting in an interwoven pattern.
The detail which has existed since the 12th century.
There are also some later additions to the monument that were added during the 15th century.
The structure was declared a national monument in 1931.
Parish Church of the Assumption of the Virgin
The 15th century parish church known in Spanish as the Asuncion del Virgen is a structure built in the Levantine- Plateresque style of architecture and the striking detail shows the imagination that went into the planning of this structure.
Inside the church there is a shrine dedicated to the holy communion which in itself is a fine example of the excellence of Baroque architecture.
Plaza de la Constitucion
The Square of the Constitution houses the town hall which locally is known as Ayuntamiento, although here in Biar, the building has the words ‘Casa Consistorial’ written above the entrance, meaning ‘town house council.’
Also in this square is located the local tourist information office.
Archaeological Museum
The Archaeological Museum in Biar is located on the Main Street (Calle Mayor).
It exhibits locally found treasures such as ceramics and clay pots and several other examples of pans and jars which modern versions can be found in plentiful supply in the shops along Camino de la Virgen Road.
The museum itself has free entry.
Weekly Market
Biar’s weekly market is held in the town every Wednesday. For sale are fresh fruit and vegetables in addition to good quality leather goods.
Fiestas and Festivals
There are several fiestas that take place in Biar throughout the year.
The biggest of these is the Moors and Christians (Moros y Cristianos) festival that takes place every year during the month of May and lasts for several days.
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Spain 101 is a free ebook full of unique tips that will save you thousands of Euros when moving to / living in Spain.
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