Vilanova d’Alcolea

Located in the Plana Alta region of the province of Castellón, Vilanova d’Alcolea is a small inland municipality of the Valencian Community, around 35 kilometres northeast of Castellón de la Plana. Although today it is a quiet agricultural village surrounded by olive groves, almond orchards and vineyards, its location has made it an important crossing point for more than two thousand years.

The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, but its strategic importance increased during the Roman period with the construction of the Via Augusta, the principal road linking the Mediterranean coast of Hispania. Just outside the present-day village stood Ildum, an official Roman road station where travellers, merchants and military units could rest before continuing their journey. Archaeological discoveries, including sections of the ancient road and Roman remains, confirm the importance of this route in connecting southern and northeastern Iberia.

Following the Islamic conquest in the 8th century, the settlement moved to a more defensible position on higher ground. The name Alcolea derives from the Arabic al-qulay’a, meaning “the small fortress”, reflecting the existence of a fortified settlement that controlled the surrounding countryside. After the Christian reconquest by King James I of Aragon during the 13th century, the village was repopulated under a royal charter and gradually developed into the rural community that survives today. Over the following centuries, agriculture became the foundation of the local economy, a role it continues to play.

The historic centre preserves a traditional Valencian character, with narrow streets, modest stone houses and small squares that reflect centuries of gradual development rather than large-scale urban planning. The Parish Church of Sant Bartomeu, rebuilt during the eighteenth century, dominates the centre of the village, while several historic fountains and traditional farmhouses can be found throughout the surrounding countryside. Beyond the village, quiet secondary roads provide access to vineyards, olive plantations and low limestone hills typical of inland Castellón.

Although Vilanova d’Alcolea is not a major tourist destination, it represents an interesting stop for travellers wishing to discover a less-visited part of eastern Spain. Its historical significance lies not in monumental architecture, but in its continuous occupation from Roman times through the Islamic period and into the Kingdom of Valencia. The proximity of the former Roman station of Ildum further strengthens its importance within the history of transport and communications across the Iberian Peninsula.

For motorhome travellers, the village offers a convenient stopping point away from the busy Mediterranean coastline. The overnight stop provides easy access to the centre on foot, allowing the historic streets and local services to be explored without the need to move the vehicle. The surroundings remain generally quiet during the evening and overnight hours, making the location suitable for a peaceful break during a longer journey through the province of Castellón. Access is straightforward via local roads and is suitable for larger motorhomes, while the relatively flat terrain simplifies parking and manoeuvring.

Vilanova d’Alcolea is best appreciated as a short historical stop rather than a destination filled with major attractions. Its greatest strengths are its authentic rural atmosphere, its connection with the ancient Via Augusta and the opportunity to experience a traditional Valencian village that has remained largely untouched by mass tourism. For travellers exploring inland Castellón, it offers a combination of historical interest, practical accessibility and a relaxed environment that fits naturally into a motorhome itinerary.