Can’t see Denia castle for the trees

DENIA castle is emerging from the pinewood that practically surrounded it.

Photographs taken 50 years ago show the castle denuded of the trees that have gradually obscured the 11th century fortress and are now threatening its walls. Now the ramparts and other castle landmarks will again be visible from the centre of town, as deforestation gets underway.

The first phase of felling has been completed with the removal of 129 pines. It is planned to cut down 266 trees in all and Mayor Ana Kringe recently confirmed a budget allocation of €20,830 for carrying out the second phase.

The roots of the felled trees have been dug up as they were affecting the walls of the castle itself, archaeological remains and the ruins of the mediaeval Santa Maria de la Vila Villa church. This was destroyed at the beginning of the 18th century during the War of Succession between the Bourbons and Habsburgs.