The redevelopment of Cagalaolla Square, in Alicante's Old Town, has left a significant void. The ceramic plaque depicting the coat of arms of the Marquis of Cagalaolla, which for years was a distinctive element of this square, has been removed. The works, inaugurated this weekend by the city's mayor, have renovated stairs, walls, and urban furniture, but have left behind a symbol that for many represents the memory of the neighborhood.
These refurbishment works began in July 2025, with a budget of 415,162.50 euros and an estimated execution period of six months. The intervention included the demolition of the stairs connecting Toledo and Lepanto streets to reinforce the foundations, the review of underground water networks, the sanitation of side walls, and the replacement of tiles, pavements, railings, lighting, and urban furniture.
“"The square looks nice, but the plaque has not returned to its place; it was the soul of the square, something that identified this space, and now we don't know if it will be replaced or what its future will be."
Among the elements that have not returned to their place is the tile plaque honoring the Marquis of Cagalaolla. Several residents have expressed their dissatisfaction with the non-replacement of this element, considered a symbol of the place's identity. Local sources have indicated that the plaque was broken and missing two pieces, but they hope it will return to the square.
The removal of the tiles when the work began already raised concerns about whether the plaque would be replaced upon completion of the works. The Alicante City Council has not provided a response regarding the replacement of this plaque, despite inquiries made.
“"It's not just this square. Also in Yolanda Escrich Square, on Lorenzo Carbonell Street, a tile plaque made by the sculptor Gutiérrez was removed and never returned. We have requested that these plaques be cataloged and protected to prevent their disappearance, because they are also monuments."
The spokesperson for the Alicante Vivo association has warned that this situation is not isolated in the city, pointing to other cases of removed plaques that have not returned. He emphasized the importance of preserving these elements, which are part of Alicante's cultural and visual heritage, and lamented the lack of protection for local history.
The marquisate of Cagalaolla is one of the most curious in Alicante. The title was granted by Pope Leo XIII, and the first to hold it was Juan Bautista Rocamora Picó, whose work was linked to the Port of Alicante. His historical presence is tied to the identity of this neighborhood, as he owned numerous buildings in the Old Town, many leased to sailors and port workers.
