The Cova de les Morretes has officially opened as an open-air seaside museum. New interpretive panels now tell the story of the cliff caves of El Poble Nou de Benitatxell.
For centuries, smugglers, fishermen and farmers used these caves as shelter. They lived and worked along this harsh stretch of coastline, shaped by the sea and constant hardship.
Bringing the cave back to life
The restoration project began in late 2022. Since then, the site has undergone several stages of improvement.
During the first phase in 2023, restoration teams uncovered a hoard of 67 Spanish coins from the 19th century. The coins date from between 1869 and 1879 and link closely to smuggling activity. In 2024, the team restored a large exterior oven, adding another important feature to the site.
With the interpretive panels now in place, the museum stands complete and open to the public.
Daily life along the cliffs
The panels describe how people once used each part of the cave. They explain the purpose of the stable and the kiln and show how people organised daily life inside the shelter.
The panels also explore traditional fishing methods at Les Pesqueres de Cingle. These fishing spots formed a vital part of the local economy and identity.
The project places strong emphasis on accessibility. Visitors can read the panels in Spanish and Valencian. A digital application provides the content in English. An inclusive panel uses plain language, pictograms, Braille and a relief map.
Research rooted in the community
The historical content draws on many sources. These include specialist publications about the fishing grounds of Benitatxell and Xàbia.
The team also used audiovisual documentaries and gathered first-hand knowledge from local residents and municipal staff.
Guided tours coming soon
Councillor for Heritage Víctor Bisquert described the project as “a fundamental step in the dissemination, conservation and enhancement of this heritage site”. He emphasised its historical rigour, technical quality and universal accessibility.
He also confirmed that the council is already organising guided tours. These visits will allow people to explore the cave and its history in greater depth.
A shelter carved into the rock
The cave sits along the popular Benitatxell Cliff Route and masonry walls surround it. In the past, people used the space to hide from bad weather while waiting for ships to arrive.
Inside, the cave provided room for sleeping and storage. People kept tools, food and goods there. A small cupboard with carob wood shelves still survives, along with two windows carved into the rock.
Smuggling as a way of life
Smuggling played a central role in the area’s history. Poverty, heavy taxes and strict controls on basic goods pushed many people into the trade.
Smugglers moved goods such as tobacco, alcohol, coffee, sugar and textiles. They worked mainly at night and relied on hidden coves like Llebeig. From there, mules carried the goods inland.
Local communities often viewed smuggling as a necessity rather than a crime. Fishermen, farmers and even some officials supported the activity.
