Calpe: A Journey to the Heart of Fishing on its Centenary
Calpe: A Journey to the Heart of Fishing on its Centenary
Calpe, a jewel of the Mediterranean, commemorates a century of rich fishing tradition through its Fishermen’s Guild. Now, you too can be part of this history. Imagine the excitement of witnessing a lively fish auction at the fish market or seeing how the fishing boats return to port with the catch of the day. There is nothing like watching how the best seafood is unloaded directly from the sea and sold at the auction. In addition, the Peix de Calp quality seal guarantees that the fish sold at the market is fresh and authentic from the area. After visiting the market and attending the auction, we invite you to try the exquisite Calpe white shrimp, a local delicacy that you cannot miss.
Experience the excitement of the arrival of the fishing boats to the port and the fascinating auction of fresh fish at the Calpe fish market
The Fish Auction: A Spectacle of Flavors and Tradition
The fish auction at the Calpe fish market is a ritual that is repeated day after day, but that never ceases to surprise. The atmosphere is frenetic, the aromas of the sea and fish fill the air, and the bids happen at a dizzying pace.
- A visual spectacle: Watching the auctioneers in action is quite an experience. Their gestures, their voices and their bids create a unique atmosphere that transports you to another time.
- Emotions of smells and flavours: The variety of fish that are auctioned is impressive: from white and red prawns, to more local species such as cuttlefish, squid, whiting or red mullet.
- A unique opportunity: You can buy top quality fresh fish directly from the fishing boats, at very competitive prices.
The Arrival of the Fishing Boats: An Encounter with the Sea
Another of the most exciting moments of a visit to Calpe is witnessing the arrival of the fishing boats to the port. It is a spectacle that connects you directly with nature and allows you to appreciate the hard work of the fishermen.
- A parade of boats: Seeing how the boats enter the port, loaded with fish and followed by the seagulls, is an image that will remain etched in your retina.
- The work of the sailors: You will be able to observe up close how the sailors unload the catch, how they select the product and how they prepare it for the auction.
- A connection with tradition: Fishing is an activity that has been passed from generation to generation. By witnessing the arrival of the boats, you will be connecting with this ancient tradition.
Fish and seafood from the Mediterranean
Calpe’s fishermen catch a wide variety of fish and seafood from the Mediterranean, thanks to the richness and biodiversity of its waters. Fishing in Calpe follows traditional and sustainable methods, which guarantees the freshness and quality of the products found in the market and in local restaurants. Typical species are:
Fish: Whiting, Red mullet, Mackerel, Monkfish, Anchovy, Grouper, Hake, Sole or Red tuna.
Shellfish and crustaceans: Squid, Octopus, Cuttlefish, Lobster, Langoustine, Norway lobster, Mantis shrimp, Crab or Red or white shrimp.
The Centenary of the Fishermen’s Guild: A Historic Milestone
The Fishermen’s Guild of Calpe is celebrating its centenary this year, a milestone that deserves to be celebrated. This institution has been the fundamental pillar of the fishing community for a century, defending its interests and ensuring the sustainability of marine resources.
- A legacy that endures: The Fishermen’s Guild has witnessed great changes in the fishing sector, but its commitment to tradition and quality remains the same.
- A promising future: The Fishermen’s Guild is working to ensure a sustainable future for fishing in Calpe, combining tradition with new technologies.
We would like to congratulate all the members and fishermen of the Calpe Fishermen’s Guild on their centenary, and thank the Senior Skipper of the Calpe Fishermen’s Guild, Paco Catalá, for giving us the opportunity to learn more about the history and current efforts of the fishermen who keep this tradition alive. The sea and fishing are an essential part of the soul of Calpe, something that is evident when you walk around its fishing port or attend the lively activity of the fish market. Currently, the fleet is made up of 13 boats that go out to fish daily with the aim of offering the freshest and most local seafood, always guaranteeing the best quality.
HERE: More info on the history of Calpe Fishermen’s Guild
Video made by Calpe City Council together with Creama-Calp to promote Peix de Calp
Calpe: A Journey to the Heart of Fishing on its Centenary
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