There are evidence of human habitation in the area since prehistoric times and there are substantial Iberian ruins on the hills nearby. In the 4th century BC it was a Greek colony of Marseille or Empúries. A castle overlooks Denia. The castle was built by Philip II of Spain. Many ferries depart from Denia to the Balearic Islands, Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza. In Denia you can practice water sports such as windsurfing and water skiing. The beaches are pleasant with golden sand and lots of sunshine.