Discovering Valencia: Spain's Jewel on the Mediterranean

November 17, 2024 at 10:24 am, No comments

Exploring the Rich History, Culture, and Gastronomy of Spain's Third-Largest City

On the east coast of Spain, where the river Turia flows into the Mediterranean Sea, lies the dynamic city of Valencia.

Valencia, renowned for its extraordinary architecture, historical heritage and excellent gastronomy, is a charming place that presents an original combination of tradition and modernity.

Spain’s third-largest city, it is a hidden gem that is often overlooked compared to the more famous Madrid and Barcelona.

Thanks to its temperate climate throughout the year, beautiful beaches and a strong culture deeply rooted in tradition, Valencia is a must-see destination for those who want to live an authentic Spanish experience.

Brief History of Valencia

The birth of Valencia dates back to the 1st century BC, when it was founded by the Romans. During the period of Moorish domination, between the 8th and 13th centuries, the city flourished, becoming an important center of knowledge and culture. The Moors brought new varieties of crops, such as rice and oranges, and their impact on architecture is still tangible in the historic center of Valencia.

In 1238, King James I of Aragon took control of the city, thus starting the process of integration of Valencia into the Crown of Aragon. Over the centuries, Valencia has had an important influence in the history of Spain, starting from the War of the Spanish Succession in the 18th century until the Spanish Civil War in the 20th century.

Today it is a cutting-edge and innovative city, able to harmonize its extraordinary cultural heritage with contemporary comforts.

Explore the cultural attractions of Valencia

Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (City of Arts and Sciences): Designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, this innovative complex is a must-see to explore. It houses various cultural and architectural institutions, such as the opera house, a museum and a cinema, all of which are joined by wonderful parks and gardens.
Mercat Central (Central Market): A true dream for foodies, this historic market is the largest in Europe. It is the perfect place to enjoy local specialities, seafood and typical dishes of the Valencian cuisine.
Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange): Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a magnificent Gothic-style building that once served as a commodity market for the city. Currently, it hosts cultural events and represents the history of Valencia as a significant commercial hub.
Albufera: Not far from the city centre, this serene swamp area is home to a wide range of bird species. It is a great place to observe birds and appreciate the natural wonders of Valencia.
Museu Faller (Fallas Museum): This museum celebrates the city’s famous festival, the Fallas, by displaying complex sculptures, often of a satirical character, which are burned during the annual event. It also houses a collection of handicrafts typical of the Valencian culture.

Valencian gastronomy

Paella: This famous rice dish probably has its roots in Valencia. Usually, it is prepared in a large shallow pan called paellera, and commonly includes ingredients such as chicken, rabbit and fresh local seafood.
Horchata and Fartons: These two culinary pleasures form an ideal match. Horchata is a fresh drink made with tigrated hazelnuts, while fartons are elongated sweets, ideal to be soaked in the drink.
Agua de Valencia: Agua de Valencia is a typical drink of the city of Valencia, made with Cava (a Spanish sparkling wine) or champagne, orange juice, vodka and gin.

Festivals and Events

Valencia is renowned for its lively festivals, including Las Fallas, the most famous of all. This 5-day event in March transforms the city, enriching it with intricate sculptures, fireworks and parades, which end with an extraordinary pyrotechnic show and the demolition of the fallas.

Practical tips for the visit

Best time to visit: The ideal time to visit is between April and June, and then from September to October, when the weather is pleasant and there is a smaller influx of tourists.
Getting around: Valencia is a compact city that is well suited to be explored on foot or by bike. It also has excellent public transport, including buses, trams and metro.
Language: Although some inhabitants speak English, knowing some basic phrases in Valencian or Spanish will be well received and make it easier for you to get in touch with the local population.
Accommodation: Valencia offers a variety of options, ranging from vintage hotels to contemporary apartments, to suit every budget and taste.

Conclusion

Valencia has it all, with its fascinating history, vibrant culture and exquisite cuisine. Whether you are taking a walk in the historic centre, observing the avant-garde architecture or enjoying the local dishes, Valencia will surely captivate you with its unique beauty.