Torrevieja, located on Spain’s Costa Blanca, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past 70 years. What was once a quiet fishing village and salt-producing town has evolved into a bustling city with a thriving tourism industry, a significant expatriate population, and a rapidly growing economy.
In this article, we will explore Torrevieja’s history from the 1950s onwards, highlighting the key events, the development of tourism, the influx of foreign residents, and the city’s impressive population growth.
1950s: The Pre-Tourism Era and the Salt Industry’s Dominance
In the 1950s, Torrevieja was still a relatively isolated town, with its economy primarily based on fishing and salt production. The nearby Laguna de La Mata and Laguna de Torrevieja were already key sources of salt extraction, and the industry was the town’s main employer.
Despite its coastal beauty, Torrevieja remained largely undiscovered by tourists. The infrastructure was limited, with dirt roads connecting the town to other parts of Alicante province. The local population at this time was modest, with fewer than 5,000 residents.
Key Events in the 1950s
- The salt industry expanded, with increasing exports to Europe and beyond.
- Fishing remained an essential way of life for many families.
- The town lacked modern tourist facilities and was not yet seen as a holiday destination.
1960s: The First Signs of Tourism Growth
The 1960s marked the beginning of change, as Spain’s overall tourism industry started to grow. The Costa Blanca was promoted as a travel destination, and Torrevieja’s mild climate and beautiful beaches began attracting visitors.
Key Developments in the 1960s:
- The first hotels and holiday apartments were built, although tourism remained low-scale.
- Improved road infrastructure made it easier for visitors to reach Torrevieja from Alicante and Murcia.
- The Spanish government recognized the potential of tourism along the Costa Blanca.
Even though tourism was still in its infancy, the 1960s laid the groundwork for what was to come.
1970s: The Real Estate Boom Begins
The 1970s saw a major shift in Torrevieja’s development. More Europeans, particularly from the UK and Scandinavia, started visiting the area, drawn by the low cost of living, warm climate, and relaxed lifestyle.
Key Changes in the 1970s:
- The first urbanizations (residential developments) were built, primarily for Spanish holidaymakers.
- The population began to increase significantly, exceeding 10,000 residents.
- The salt industry remained strong, but tourism and real estate became increasingly important.
During this decade, Torrevieja transitioned from a small working town to a growing tourist hub.
@mycostablanca3 Torrevieja 1970s #costablanca #torrevieja #1970s #oldvideo #20century #spain
♬ Rock Around The Clock – Bill Haley and His Comets
1980s: The International Boom and Expat Influx
The 1980s were a defining period for Torrevieja. As Spain joined the European Economic Community (EEC) in 1986, investment poured into the country, leading to massive developments along the Costa Blanca.
Key Events in the 1980s:
- Thousands of British, Scandinavian, and German residents started buying holiday homes.
- Torrevieja became one of the fastest-growing towns in Spain.
- Tourism became the dominant economic sector, surpassing the salt industry.
- New shopping areas, hotels, and entertainment venues were developed.
By the end of the decade, Torrevieja had a distinct international character, with English, German, and Scandinavian influences visible in shops, restaurants, and daily life.
1990s: From a Town to a City
The 1990s saw Torrevieja’s full transformation into a modern city. Real estate boomed, with construction expanding in La Mata, Los Balcones, and Punta Prima.
Key Developments in the 1990s:
- The population surpassed 50,000 residents, a fivefold increase since the 1950s.
- Torrevieja became one of Spain’s most popular destinations for retirees and expatriates.
- Large shopping centers, golf courses, and modern marinas were developed.
- The local economy diversified, with healthcare, retail, and hospitality industries growing.
By the late 1990s, Torrevieja was no longer just a holiday destination—it was a permanent home for thousands of European expatriates.
2000s: Infrastructure Growth and a Changing Demographic
The early 2000s were marked by further expansion, with new residential developments, highways, and commercial centers. The property market was booming, attracting investors from the UK, Belgium, and Scandinavia.
Key Changes in the 2000s:
- The population surged past 100,000, with foreign residents making up more than 40%.
- The construction of hospitals, international schools, and shopping malls made Torrevieja a fully modern city.
- Tourism reached record numbers, with visitors from all over Europe.
Torrevieja was now firmly established as a major expat hub, with communities of British, German, Scandinavian, and Russian residents.
2010s: Overcoming Economic Challenges and Sustaining Growth
The 2008 global financial crisis had an impact on Spain, and Torrevieja’s property market saw a decline. However, by the mid-2010s, the city recovered, with tourism and foreign investments picking up again.
Key Developments in the 2010s:
- Affordable property prices attracted new buyers from Russia, Poland, and France.
- The salt industry continued to operate, but tourism remained the economic driver.
- The city invested in public transportation, parks, and cultural attractions.
- Events like the Habaneras Music Festival continued to attract visitors.
Despite economic challenges, Torrevieja remained one of the most popular places for expatriates and retirees in Spain.
2020s: A New Era for Torrevieja
As of today, Torrevieja is a thriving, multicultural city, with a permanent population of over 85,000 residents, which swells to hundreds of thousands in summer.
What Defines Torrevieja Today?
- A mix of Spanish locals and a huge international community.
- A strong focus on sustainable tourism and environmental conservation.
- Ongoing development in healthcare, real estate, and infrastructure.
- The city’s salt lakes continue to produce over 500,000 tons of salt per year.
Torrevieja has come a long way from its humble fishing village origins to become one of Spain’s most dynamic coastal cities.
@mycostablanca3 Visit ➡️ mycostablanca.net #torrevieja #costablanca #drone #sea #beach #tiktoktravel
♬ Epic Music(863502) – Draganov89
Conclusion: A City Built on Tourism and Community
Torrevieja’s transformation from a small salt-producing town to a thriving international city is a testament to its strategic location, natural beauty, and welcoming atmosphere. Over the decades, the city has adapted to economic changes, embraced international influences, and positioned itself as one of Spain’s top coastal destinations.
With continued investment, tourism, and a growing expat community, Torrevieja’s future looks brighter than ever.
Follow us
