La MataLa Mata - History and Information - Just north of, and now virtually joined to the bustling Costa Blanca town of Torrevieja, is the traditional Spanish village of La Mata. A seaside town with one of the best beaches on the Costa Blanca, La Mata grew up around the salt industry, and until the headquarters for the administration of salt was moved to Torrevieja in 1802 it was the most important centre along this part of the coast.

The history of salt production in La Mata (from the La Mata salt lagoon) goes back to Roman times, when salt was valued highly and even used as currency. Later on the revenue created by the La Mata salt lake was reputed to have financed the expeditions of Christopher Columbus.

Nowadays the La Mata salt lake is part of a protected Natural Park ( Parque Natural de La Mata y Torrevieja) and is an important refuge for many species of bird life.

La Mata is the location of a popular street market - held every Wednesday, it is open from 8am to 1pm and is a great place to stock up on fresh, locally grown fruit and vegetables, and also shoes, handbags and other products. The location of the market is Canal de Acequión.

Fiestas in La Mata - As with all Spanish towns and villages La Mata has its share of fiestas and celebrations, including the Virgen del Carmen in July and the Virgen del Rosario in October.

La Mata has a good selection of shops, bars and restaurants and plenty of rental property available for long and short term visitors.

For those looking to buy a holiday home in the sun La Mata is an ideal location with its fabulous year round climate and easy access.