Three churches in Alicante to say “I do”

Alicante offers a variety of settings for a church wedding: a Baroque temple housing the city’s patron saint, the oldest church in the historic center, and a bright and accessible parish church. Each has its own unique character. Here are my three recommendations.

1. Co-Cathedral of San Nicolás de Bari

History. It was built in 1616 on the site of a medieval church that had been a parish church since 1264. Clement VIII elevated it to a Collegiate Church in 1600, and since 1959 it has been the Co-Cathedral of the Diocese of Orihuela-Alicante, by decree of John XXIII. It houses the city’s patron saints, Our Lady of Remedies and Saint Nicholas. Inside, the coffered dome, the gilded organ, and the main altarpiece are particularly noteworthy.

Visit the website: https://concatedralalicante.com/

Requirements to get married.

  • Date: Reservations can only be made in person at the parish office (Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM), with a €50 deposit. Availability can be checked beforehand by email: infoconcatedraloa@gmail.com.
  • Application Process: This process begins at least 6 months in advance at the parish of residence.
  • Documents: Full birth certificate, certificate of single status, baptismal certificate (valid for 6 months), copy of national identity card, certificate of completion of the premarital course, and a sworn statement signed by two witnesses over the age of 18 who are not relatives.
  • Special Cases: Mixed marriages, divorced individuals, or foreigners with less than three years of residency require approval from the Diocese.

Recommendations

  • The music must respect the liturgical texts. Organ music and sacred music are recommended, and folk-style masses are not permitted.
  • There is no exclusive photographer or florist, but absolute discretion is requested. During prayer, readings, and the homily, photos should be kept to a minimum. Group photos at the end are few and should not be taken, and the church should not be turned into a studio.
  • The flowers should not cover the altar or the chair, and they are removed at the end of the day’s worship.
  • Rice or petals may only be thrown outside the festival grounds. Streamers and firecrackers are prohibited, with fines of up to €6,000.
  • You have to be very punctual, because delays force us to shorten the ceremony.

2. Basilica of Santa María

History. It is the oldest church in Alicante. Built in the 13th century in the Valencian Gothic style, it stands on the site of a former mosque. It has been declared a Site of Cultural Interest since 1983. Its Baroque façade, with Solomonic columns and artwork attributed to Bautista Borja, is silhouetted against the backdrop of Santa Bárbara Castle. Inside, the Rococo presbytery with its gilded altarpiece is one of the most photogenic in the city.

Visit the website: https://www.basilicaalicante.com/index.html

Recommendations

  • It is ideal for couples looking for historical character and an environment with plenty of natural light in the old town.
  • The plaza in front of the facade is an excellent setting for welcoming guests.
  • Go with plenty of time: the surrounding streets are narrow and pedestrianized.

3. Parish of Nuestra Señora de Gracia

History. It is located at Plaza Montanyeta, 7. Its sober facade, with arch, niche and sculptures, and its wide nave with colored stained glass and gilded altarpiece make it stand out.

Visit the webside: https://www.parroquiagraciaalicante.org/es

Requirements to get married.

  • Application: submit to the parish office at least three months in advance..
  • Course: a full day, from 9:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., in coordination with the Parish of San Pascual (Capuchinos), at Reyes Católicos 36 (tel. 965 984 412). Both the bride and groom must attend, and be punctual.
  • Information: Parish office, tel. 965 21 47 61. They have a PDF entitled “Getting Married at Our Lady of Grace 2025” with the detailed procedure.

Recommendations.

  • The three-month timeframe makes it a good option if the date is decided with less lead time.
  • Its spacious hall easily accommodates numerous guests.
  • Ask at the office about the rules regarding music, flowers, and photography before hiring any vendors.

And which church would you choose to get married in?