a Greek-Iberia economical hub. During the first century CE, near the former site a port was built, serving the city of Illici, named Portus Illicitanus () (cited by Claudius Ptolemy in Geography). This port proved paramount for the development of the region's maritime commerce, together with Cartagena's. In 460 AC, emperor Majorians flotilla set sail to attack north African vandals, but was burnt at that same port. From the Roman settlement a necropolis is still in place, as well as a fish-salting factory and the Roman House of Palmeral. Their remains are described as back as 1621 by Cristòfol Sanz, although they were excavated during the 20th century. Economics Economical activity in this region is based on agriculture, craft-making and fishing. 1.3% of the population was dedicated to agriculture in 2003, and that's only successful when coupled with artificial watering systems, needed for the 200 hectares of orange trees (102ha), mandarin trees (74ha), and pomegranate trees (18ha), together with 230ha used for vegetables such as melons, shallots, broccoli, etc. Languages According to article 35 of law n° 4/1983 (23 November), Santa Pola's official language is Valencian, together with Spanish (Spanish Constitution, article n°3, 1978). INE's latest census shows that 90% of the population speaks Valencian. There has been an increased positive trend in the influx of new language influences, in part due to immigration patterns in the region. This has caused suburbs such as Gran Alacant to have a significant population of English speakers. Gallery References External links Santa Pola, in English. Santa Pola, City Overview with a Video and Pictures. From a local citizen. In English. Granalacant Urbanization, Granalacant Urbanization. Gran Alacant's Website | Devoted to Gran Alacant, http://www.mygranalacant.com Municipalities in the Province of Alicante Greek colonies in Iberia