Poblat de Sant Josep
Explore the Poblat de Sant Josep with more than 2,500 years of history under your feet
Strategically located on the mountain overlooking the Belcaire River valley, the Poblat de Sant Josep is one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the Valencian Community. With a long history of occupation dating back to the Early Iron Age, this settlement allows visitors to trace, through its preserved remains, the evolution of the different cultures that have inhabited it, especially during its peak in the Iberian period, without forgetting the importance of the Roman occupation or the Andalusian farmstead.
Strolling through its streets, you can admire the sections of the city wall, the defensive towers, the houses, and even the warehouses that have withstood the test of time. You’ll discover details that will bring you closer to the daily lives of the people who lived in the village, what activities they carried out, what they cooked, and how they interacted. A privileged enclave where every stone tells the story of the cultures that, for more than two thousand years, chose the Muntanyeta de Sant Josep to make their home.
Now fully excavated, this settlement is a magnificent example of Iberian urban planning, preserving a large part of its masonry wall, three square towers, streets, staircases, and houses. It was remodeled in the 3rd century BC with a new defensive enclosure, which, after its reoccupation in Roman times (4th-5th centuries AD), was used to build warehouses and a notable access gate.
How to get there
There are two main routes to reach the archaeological site on foot, which is located next to the Hermitage of the Holy Family:
- Access via stairs (direct): located next to the entrance of the Caves of Sant Josep, on the Passeig de les Grutes. It is a staircase of about 100 steps that leads directly up to the site.
- Starting from the main parking area of the Sant Josep site, walk along Carrer del Tenis, turn left onto Carrer de la Ermita, and continue along the CV-23 sidewalk towards Alfondeguilla until you reach the Plaça de la Ermita de la Sagrada Familia, where the entrance to the archaeological site is located. The walk is approximately 450 meters.
Schedules and visits
Although there is a freely accessible viewpoint offering a panoramic view of the site, to ensure the preservation of the structures and improve the experience of those visiting Poblat, access to the interior of the archaeological site is regulated through guided tours.
Guided tours
Morning tours are conducted through the interior streets of the archaeological site where specialized guides explain the history of the settlement.
- Children under 3 years old: free admission
- From 3 to 12 years old: €3/person
- From 13 years old: €5/person
Tickets can be purchased in person at the Tourist Info or at the ticket office of the Caves of Sant Josep, although it is advisable to check availability and make a prior reservation of tickets on the official website.
Group visits
Specialized group tours, educational activities for primary and secondary school students, and family activities are also available. To arrange special group tours, please contact the Tourist Information Office of Vall d’Uixó. vallduixo@touristinfo.net
Special monthly visit: Rock Art and Poblat de Sant Josep
Once a month, we offer a guided tour in collaboration with the Valltorta Museum to discover the secrets of the Sant Josep Natural Area. This two-hour activity, priced at €5 (€3 for children aged 3-12), takes you on a journey through time. It begins at the Coves de Sant Josep dock—no boat trip included—to explore Paleolithic paintings and engravings dating back 17,000 years. The tour culminates with a visit to the Sant Josep settlement to learn about the history of this fascinating archaeological site.
The available dates for this experience can be checked directly on the Poblat de Sant Josep ticket sales website.
