• Benidorm transformed from a fishing village to a tourist destination with skyscrapers.
• The city attracts around 3 million visitors annually, becoming the 'Manhattan' of the Mediterranean.
• Benidorm faces challenges managing mass tourism and promoting community-oriented experiences.

Benidorm, once a small fishing village with olive tree hills, has undergone a significant transformation into a bustling tourist hotspot. Characterized by its skyscrapers, long beaches filled with tourists, and a focus on consumption, it now attracts approximately 3 million visitors each year. The city's urban development, particularly under the leadership of Mayor Pedro Zaragoza, has shaped it into a modern resort town. However, this transformation has also brought challenges related to overtourism and the need to promote more community-oriented tourism.

• What: Benidorm transformed from a small fishing village into a major tourist destination, characterized by skyscrapers, crowded beaches, and a focus on consumption.
• Who: Key figures include Mayor Pedro Zaragoza, tourists, local residents, and the Benidorm police.
• When: The transformation occurred over approximately 60 years, with significant development from 1950 to 1974 under Mayor Zaragoza.
• Where: Benidorm, Spain, specifically the Levante Beach, Plaça del Castell, and various residential and commercial areas.

The transformation of Benidorm highlights the impact of mass tourism on a small coastal community. The architectural changes, driven by the desire to maximize land use, have created a unique urban landscape. However, the influx of tourists has also led to challenges, including overcrowding, consumerism, and social issues such as the misuse of mobility scooters. The city is now attempting to address these challenges by promoting community-oriented tourism, suggesting a shift towards a more sustainable and balanced approach to development.

Benidorm's journey from a fishing village to a tourist mecca illustrates the complex dynamics of urban development and mass tourism. While the city has achieved economic success through tourism, it now faces the task of managing its impact and fostering a more sustainable and community-focused future.