Alcoy History

The first evidence of human presence in the Alcoi area dates back to around 60,000 years ago, when Neanderthal hunters settled here. Near La Sarga, rock paintings from approximately 10,000 to 6,500 years ago have been discovered. By the mid-3rd millennium BC, people began moving from caves to the plains to cultivate cereals and build mountain fortifications at sites like Mola Alta de Serelles, Mas del Corral, Mas de Menente, and El Puig.

Following the Roman conquest of the Iberians, several rural villas and a necropolis were established in the region. The town of Alcoi itself was founded in 1256 by James I of Aragon, who constructed a castle in a strategic position over the Serpis river to secure the southern frontier of the Kingdom of Valencia during the Reconquista.

In 1291, King James II of Aragon donated the town to the Sicilian admiral Roger of Lauria. It remained under his possession until it reverted to royal control in 1430.

During the War of Spanish Succession, Alcoi supported Archduke Charles, leading to a siege and the loss of numerous privileges, which marked the beginning of a period of decline.

In 1873, Alcoi’s workers revolted in what became known as the Petroleum Revolution.

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