1

Siete Aguas / Playa de Gandia

The province of Valencia offers visitorsa comprehensive tourism product, bothin the interior - with striking rustic andmountainous landscapes – and along thecoast, stretching along more than 100kilometres of beautiful fine sandybeaches. Without forgetting the richcuisine, famous around the world for itsgreat variety of rice dishes. Among itsfiestas and traditions, the fallas are anauthentic expression of Valencianidiosyncrasy, together with the manycultural and arts and crafts traditions.The historical and artistic heritage, withnumerous national monuments of interest,

is worthy of note.The city of Valencia provides aninterest ing contrast between i tsmonumental heritage (the Lonja, theMicalet tower of the Cathedral, the

towers of Serranos and Quart...)and the great futurist architecturallandmark of the City of Arts and Sciences.This combination makes the city ofValencia one of the most attractive touristdestinations in the Mediterranean.Within a few kilometres from the capitalcity, numerous towns and villages offera rich cultural heritage and beautiful

landscapes. Witness the rich history ofthis land, in towns such as Xàtiva,Gandia, Sagunt and Requena, with theirnumerous monuments. The variety of

landscapes and the ever-present sun havemade this province a favourite destinationfor millions of tourists, who come yearafter year to benefit from all the regionhas to offer, attracted by the beauty ofthe landscapes and the welcomingcharacter of the people.Owing to its strategic location, halfwayalong the Spanish Mediterranean coast,

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Paisaje (Alto Turia)

Playa (Canet d'en Berenguer)

approximately 350 kilometres from themain Spanish cit ies (Madrid andBarcelona), the province of Valenciaattracts millions of tourists from aroundthe world every year, who come to enjoythe more than 2700 average yearly hoursof sun. The province of Valencia offersits visitors a wide range of hotels, countryhouses, spas and camping grounds tomake your stay a pleasant one.

The province has experienced spectaculargrowth over the past few years. Theinvestment in infrastructures andequipment, together with the developmentof transport, hotel and leisure facilitiesand communications, have placedValencia on par with other great Europeanregions.The Diputación de Valencia’s tourismbrand ‘Valencia, Terra i Mar’comb ines theattractivenessof all its townsand villages,w i t h at o u r i s ms e c t o rwhich hasbecome apoint of referenceboth on a national and international level.‘Valencia Terra i Mar’ welcomes you toenjoy its beaches, its coastal and inlandregions, the cultural heritage and itsspectacular natural resources.

5Playa (Tavernes de la Valldigna)

Castillo y Teatro Romano (Sagunto)

Valencia has been inhabited ever sinceearly times, as can be witnessed by thenumerous objects and archaeological sitesfound all over the territory: the Cuevas deBolomor (Tavernes de Valldigna), CovaNegra (Xàtiva) and Cova Foradada (Oliva),trace their origins back to prehistoric times,between 50,000 and 150,000 years BC.Paintings

representing scenes from daily life (declaredpart of the World Heritage by UNESCO),popularly known as Levantine cavepaintings, can be found on the walls ofshelters and caves in towns such as Bicorp,Quesa and Dos Aguas.

Important fortified cities such as Edeta(Lliria), capital of Edetania, la Bastida deles Alcusses (Moixent) and Castellar de laMeca (Ayora) date back to the Iberian

8Convento (Enguera)

Poblado íbero (Puntal dels Llops)

period. In the year 219 BC, during theexpansion of the Carthaginian dominion inthe region, the city of Sagunto foughtagainst the troops of Hannibal, who putthe city under siege, marking the beginningof the Second Punic War, thus triggeringthe involvement of the Romans in thePeninsula, with the subsequent dominationwhich would last several centuries. TheRoman peace brought with it the growth

of commerce (the Herculean road, laternamed the Via Augusta, which crossesthe province). New cities such as Valenciawere then established as a result of theseevents.

The fall of the Roman Empire gave way tothe arrival of the Visigoths in 700 AD, oneof the least known eras of our history.Later the Arabs and Muslims from North

Africa dominated the region for over fivecenturies, introducing their culture, religion,cuisine and customs, whose influence isstill noticeable today. The first attempt toconquer back the region took place in1093, under the leadership of Rodrigo Díazde Vivar, “El Cid Campeador”, who wasresponsible for numerous battles and thetaking of several cities which later wouldreturn to the Muslim dominion. In 1238,

King Jaime I reconquered Valencia, enteringtriumphantly in the city on October 9,establishing the Christian Kingdom ofValencia, and its legal foundations.

With the Valencian Golden Age in the 15thcentury, the Kingdom of Valencia reachedits greatest economic, commercial andcultural development. Great writers,thinkers and important architectural works

(such as the Lonja) positioned the city ofValencia at the vanguard of Mediterraneancities. In 1609, the expulsion of themoriscos left many towns and villagespractically uninhabited, leading to ashortage of craftsmen and labour force. Ittook many years for the population toredevelop, and many of these towns wererepopulated by Christians from Catalonia,Aragon and Castile. In 1707, Felipe Vabolished the fueros (special rights) of theKingdom of Valencia, as a punishment fortheir support of the Archduke Carlos ofAustria during the War ofSuccession. These events ledto the development ofabso lu t i sm and theprohibition to use theValencian language inpublic.

More than two and a halfcenturies later, the Statute ofAutonomy of the ComunitatValenciana was approved in 1982,establishing theV a l e n c i a nCortes andthe Consello f t h eComun i ta tValenciana,w i t hValencia asits capitalcity.

Guerrer de Moixent(escultura ibérica)

Cartuja de Portacoeli

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Castielfabib (Rincón de Ademuz)

The contrast between the coast and inlandis what best defines the landscape of theValencian region. A thousand picturesqueroutes, each so different from the other,start only a few kilometres outside thecapital city. The Mediterranean climate andnature characterise the coastal areas.Between the sea and the foothills, next tothe beach, among the marshes and the ricefields, the extensive gardens and the endlessorange groves, amid the waters from therivers and the sea, lies an open, fertilelandscape dotted with large and small townsand villages. Beyond the mountains whichlimit the plain, crops extend as far as theeye can see. The climate changes fromMediterranean to continental, the townsand villages become more spread out, andthe influences of Aragon and Castile canbe felt among the people.

The Rincón de Ademuz, a region separatedfrom the Valencian region and inset inAragon and Castilla-La Mancha, is possiblyone of the most scenic areas. Situated highabove sea level, the winters are cold andthe climate is very pleasant in summer,making the Rincón a favourite amongtrekkers. The architecture of its main townsand villages is distinctive: rows of woodenbalconies, old water mills, fortifiedhermitages and churches, among whichspecial mention should be made of theRomanic hermitage Virgen de la Huerta andthe Church of San Pedro and San Pablo inAdemuz, the Church-Fortress Virgen de losÁngeles in Castielfabib, and the EthnologyMuseum in La Puebla de San Miguel.

Río Boilgues (Rincón de Ademuz)12

The region of La Serranía is oneof the steepest in the province.Crossed by the Turia river, it ischaracterised by its abruptlandscape. Nautical sports canbe indulged in at the reservoirof Benagéber, while the vastpine groves are ideal fortrekking. The clear skies atnight in Aras de los Olmosattract many star-watchers.The rich artistic heritage

includes theh i s t o r i c a lquarter ofAlpuente and

i t s

walled enclosure, an old Tayfa kingdomwhich even coined its own money, Chulillaand Chelva, with their narrow, steep streets,where visitors can enjoy a walk throughthe Jewish and Muslim quarter known asBenacacira, imposing castles such as theone in Chulilla and impressivem o n u m e n t s ,especia l ly theRoman aqueductof Peña Cortada,in Calles. There aretwo importantspas in the area fora relaxing stop;Fuencaliente inChulilla and Verchein Calles.

The high plains ofRequena-Utiel,the great wine-producing regionof the province,a r e v e r ydistinctive. Byi t s e l f , t h i swestern region represents the wealthof landscapes which can be foundin the province; from the plains ofRequena, through the incomparableareas of Los Cuchillos and Las Hocesdel Cabriel, to the leafy forests ofSinarcas. Requena and Utiel are thetwo main economical centres ofthe region. A visit to Requena, alsoknown as the “Villa”, shouldinclude a tour of its old medieval

quarter, which features the Cuevas de laVilla and various monuments and buildingsof great historical value, such as the gothicChurches of el Salvador and Santa Mariaand the Torre del Homenaje, a witness ofits past splendour. Utiel deserves a visit

to see the Iglesia de laAsunción, the Bullring, the Sanctuary ofthe Virgen del Remedio and the BodegaRedonda (Wine Museum).

Our tour continues through the region ofthe Valley of Ayora-Cofrentes, borderingwith the province of Albacete, with itsrich, varied natural and monumentalheritage. One of the most charming spasin the Valencian Region is located inCofrentes, where the ruins of the castle

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Acueducto Peña Cortada (Calles)

Iglesia del Salvador, Requena (Requena-Utiel)

are also worthy of a visit. The castle ofAyora, the regional capital, offers aninteresting panoramic view, while the Iberiansettlement of Castellar de la Mecca, oneof most outstanding in the province, islocated within the municipal area. Jalance,located only a few kilometres away, iswhere you will find the Cueva de D. Juan,one of the few caves which can be visitedin the province. Special mention should bemade of the numerous castles throughoutthe region, especially the one of Chirel, inCortes de Pallás and the castle ruins inJarafuel.

La Canal de Navarrés, further south, is ourfollowing destination. There, visitors canwitness how water has shaped thegeography in a strange fashion. Beautifulsettings abound, such as the Charcos delrío Grande going across Quesa. The villageof Anna is famous for its Albufera (lake

14Los Charcos del Río Grande Quesa (La Canal de Navarrés)

Cueva de D. Juan, Jalance (Valle de Ayora-Cofrentes)

surrounded by poplars, where boat ridesare offered) and for its Gorgos. Visitorswill also find interesting castles and palaces,such as the one of the Condes de Cervellónin Anna and those in Bicorp and Bolbaite,as well as the Iberian sites of Enguera,where the Church of San Miguel, theparochial and archaeological museums andthe Carmelite monastery are also worthvisiting. The cave paintings in Bicorp andQuesa form part of a series known as“Levantine cave paintings”, declared partof the World Heritage by UNESCO.

The capital of the region of la Costera isXàtiva, cradle of illustrious characters suchas the painter José Ribera “El Españoleto”and the Pope Alexander VI. The presenceof the Borja family can be felt throughoutthe city, just as that of Felipe V, who setXàtiva afire in 1707 because of itsresistance to his siege, after his victory inAlmansa during the War of Succession tothe Spanish Crown. In memory of thisoffensive, the local museum displays apainting of the Bourbon monarch hungupside down. In The old quarter, one cansee the Antiguo Hospital (15th century),

the Colegiata Basílica de Santa María “LaSeu” (16th century), the Real Monasteriode Santa Clara, stately palaces such asthe one of Alarcón, the museum of l’Almodíand the parochial museum of La Seu, aswell as numerous fountains, particularlythe one with 25 jets. The most strikingfeature as one approaches the city is theimpressive castle, a mixture of Iberian,

Roman, Islamic and gothic architecture.Entering the valley of the Cányoles river,we reach Canals, with its impressive Tower,cradle of Pope Calixto III. Montesa is famousfor its Templar castle and its importantParochial Museum, while Vallada providesattractive natural surroundings, with thePenyó, the Salaella and the Túnel deSumidors, as well as its arts and craftsand Parochial Church. A little further on isMoixent, with impressive settings such asthe Bosquet and the most important Iberiantown in the province: the Bastida de les

15Castillo de Montesa (La Costera)

La Seu (Xàtiva)

Alcusses. The famous “Guerrer deMoixent”, an Iberian statuette of greatartistic value, was found here.

La Vall d’Albaida, nearby, calledthe White Valley by the Arabsdue to the colour of the earth,is a region formed b y34 municipalitiesn e s t l i n g i nb e a u t i f u lmountain ranges,s u c h a sBenicadell, theSerra d’Agullentand t he Se r r aMariola, where onecan enjoy splendidvistas and refreshing shady areasamid aromatic plants. Theremarkable town of Bocairent,whose Medieval Quarter hasbeen declared of Historical andArtistic Interest is one of thearchitectural gems of the province,as well as the bullring, peculiarlyexcavated in the rock, and the oldestin the Valencian Region. Theparochial and archaeologicalmuseums are equally worthy ofnote, just as the enigmatic“Covetes dels Moros” (a Historical-Artistic National Monument) andthe Cava de Sant Blai (16thcentury). Albaida is characterisedby its historical quarter formed by theIglesia de la Asunción and the Palau delMarquesat d’Albaida, as well as by its two

excellent museums, the Museu Internacionalde Titelles, unique in the world, and theHouse-Museum of the painter Segrelles.

The regional capital is Ontinyent, a maintextile production centre in the

Valencian Region, whichfeatures the quarters of LaVila and the Iglesia de SantaMaría (with its impressivebell tower), the numerouspalaces such as those of

Mayans and the Duquesa deAlmodóvar, the hermitages ofSanta Ana and Sant Esteve andits interesting museums.

The region of La Safor liesnext to La Vall. Kilometres ofwhite sandy beaches stretchout along the Mediterranean

coast, with important touristcentres such as Gandia, Oliva,Tavernes de la Valldigna, Xeraco,Piles, Guardamar, Miramar,Daimús and Bellreguard. Gandia,the ducal capital city of theregion, conserves a richheritage, the legacy of theGolden Age: the castle ofBairén, the Colegiata, theHospital de Sant Marc, the

Convent de Santa Clara, the OldUniversity, and above all, the Ducal Palace,inhabited since the 14th century, when

its construction was ordered by the Dukesof Gandia. The city is located amongsplendid orange groves, surrounded by amountain belt. The city combines superb

16 Bocairent (La Vall d'Albaida)Títere del Museu de Titelles (Albaida)

tourist facilities to enjoy the sun and thebeaches, making Gandia a favouritedestination for both Spanish andinternational tourists.

Oliva has an important historical centrecomprising notable buildings, such as theMayans house, the Tower-Museum, theIglesia de Santa María, the archaeologicalmuseum and the castle of Santa Ana. In

addition, the beach is one of the mostpopular, owing to the quality of the waterand the services on offer. The Monasteryof Santa Maria de la Valldigna, located afew kilometres from Tavernes de laValldigna, has been an emblematic site inthe history of the Valencian town for morethan 700 years. It is being restored at themoment. Going inland, visitors can choosefrom a range of attractive towns andvillages to visit, such as Vilallonga, with

17Monasterio de Santa María de la Valldigna, Simat de la Valldigna (La Safor)

Playa de Cullera (La Ribera Baixa)

beautiful scenery to be found at theBarranco del l’Infern, the Racó del Duc,the Circ de la Safor, or Ador, the “balcony”of the Safor, Alfahuir, with the Conventof Sant Jeroni de Cotalba (14th century),and Barx, with les Foietes i la Drova andthe mountain peak of the Mondúver.

Going north, the next coastal region isthe Ribera Baixa, which includes part ofthe Albufera Natural Park. Sueca andCullera are the two towns of interest forvisitors to this area. Next to the estuaryof the Júcar river, Cullera includes botha sandy beach and mountains in the samenatural surroundings. The old city is setat the foot of the Muntanyeta de lesRabosses and surrounded by more thanthirteen kilometres of sandy beaches androcky shores. L’Estany, a small fresh waterlake, the Castle and the Sanctuary of theVirgen del Castillo, at the top of themountain, all offer panoramic views ofthe coast. Sueca is the cradle of ricecu l tu re ,

and comprises monuments such as theReal Iglesia de Ntra. Sra. de Sales, theIglesia de San Pedro and the City Councilbuilding, as well as the Hermitage of the“Muntanyeta dels Sants”, an excellentviewpoint dominating the landscape of

rice fields around the Albufera.

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L'Albufera, Sueca

Iglesia de San Lucas (Cheste)Murallas de Alzira (Ribera Alta)

Excellent fine sandy beaches can be foundnearby, such as in Mareny de Vilches andEl Perelló. Other towns worth mentioningare Almussafes, with the automobileindustry and its Muslim Tower, Corberawith its castle, and Albalat de la Ribera.

Travelling inland, we arrive at the regionof the Ribera Alta. Its capital, Alzira, stillconserves a long section of the medievalwalls which surrounded the city. Otheroutstanding monuments are the Monasteriode la Murta, the Municipal Museum andthe building of the City Council. Otherimportant regional towns are Carcaixent,

home of the orange, with outstandingmonuments such as the hermitageof Sant Roc de Ternils (13th century)and several old orange warehouses,and Algemesí, with its cultural andfolkloric wealth, namely with theFesta a la Mare de Déu de la Salut,its traditional dances and thepopular Muixeranga, as well asthe Basilica of Sant Jaume (16thcentury), the parochial museumand the Museu Valencià de laFesta.

La Hoya deBuñol-Chiva islocated atthe heart oft h ep r ov i n c e .This regionh a s

become famousaround the worldfor its peculiarfiesta and motors p o r t s . T h eC i r c u i t o d eVelocidad de laC o m u n i t a tV a l e n c i a n a“Ricardo Tormo”i n C h e s t egathers the bestracing driversyear after year.Worthy of note

Iglesia de Ntra. Sra. de la Asunción, Llíria(El Camp del Turia)

Monasterio de la Murta, Alzira (Ribera Alta)

19

are the Iglesia Parroquial de San Lucas,especially its octagonal bell tower, one ofthe highest in the province. Buñol has aninteresting old quarter, including a gothiccastle built in the 13th century, and hasreached world-wide fame due to thepeculiar celebration of “la tomatina” takingplace in August. Special mention shouldbe made of the castle of Chiva and theSanctuary of the Virgen del Castillo.

The region of El Camp de Turia, locatedto the north, is the territory of the oldIberian and Roman Edetania, whose oldcapital, Edeta, is now called Llíria, a citywith a great musical tradition, which alsofeatures an interesting historical quarter.

Two of the arch i tectura llandmarks in the town are theMonasterio de Sant Miquel

and the Iglesia de laSangre. Nearby,B e n i s a n ó i scharacterised by itscastle and its walled

e n c l o s u r e . T h eCartuja de Portaceli in Serra,

built between the 13th andthe 16th century, still

accommodates areligious communityin its interior, andits location among

pine groves invitesone to contemplationand retreat.

20La Hoya de Buñol-ChivaCruz Pairal s. XV (Siete Aguas)

The Camp de Morvedre is the coastalregion bordering with Castellón. Thebeaches of Sagunto and Canet d’EnBerenguer are awarded a blue flag by theEuropean Union every year. Sagunto, theregional capital, deserves a lengthy visit.This two-thousand-year-old city offers oneof the most beautiful monumental settingsleft by the Romans in Spain. The ruins of

the Roman forumare located in the castle, a fortressconstructed on a hill. The artistic settingis completed by the Jewish quarter, whoseoriginal layout has been maintainedthroughout the centuries, the Romantheatre, and the Churches of El Salvadorand Santa Maria. The interior of the regionincludes Beselga and the Font de Barraix,as well as the Arab aqueduct of Estivella,the Convent of Sant Esperit in Gilet, the

Medieval Tower of Benavites and the ArabBaths of Torres Torres.

Finally, near the coast, the region of l’Hortais the most populated area, comprisingthe city of Valencia and part of theAlbufera Natural Park. An importantindustrial and service centre, the age-old

heritage includes the city of Manises, oneof the most important ceramics productioncentre. The International Airport of Manisesis located nearby, while the old ceramictradition is kept alive in the old quarter.Another point of interest in the region isthe Monasterio de Santa María del Puig,built on the site from where Jaime Iundertook the Reconquest of Valencia.The Silos of Burjassot and the MuslimTowers in Torrent and Paterna also deserve

21Iglesia Parroquial de S. Juan Bautista, Manises (l'Horta)

Castillo y Teatro Romano (Sagunt)

a visit. In addition, the beaches of Alboraya,the Pobla de Farnals, el Puig and Valenciaall offer top-quality tourist facilities.

Visitors of Valencia can witness the historyof more than two thousand years. Duringthe 14th and 15th century, the city ofValencia was the cultural and economiccapital of the Mediterranean. The mainmerchant routes passed through Valencia,while the art of many writers and artistsbloomed in diverse domains of creativity.Few cities have been able toharmonically integrate the remotep a s t w i t h m o d e r nmonuments such asValencia has withthe ConferenceCentre, theM u s e uValenciade la

Il.lustració i la Modernitat (MUVIM), thePalau de la Música and the avant-gardeCity of Arts and Sciences.

The Cathedral is one of the great religiousbuildings, where every Thursday at noon,the Tribunal de las Aguas de Valencia (WaterC o u r t ) gathers in front of theD o o r of the Apostles.

T h e r e , t h ef a r m e r s

w h o

receive irrigation water in the regional marketgardens and groves solve their conflictsvocally, directly and always in the Valencianlanguage. The Basílica de la Virgen de losDesamparados is also a prime example ofreligious architecture. Behind it is theArchiepiscopal Palace. As regards thepolitical buildings, the Palacio de laDiputación del Reino, now known as thePalau de la Generalitat, is the mostoutstanding, together with the palaces ofBatlia and Scala, both located in the plazade Manises, which is also the seat of theprovincial Delegation.

Calle Caballeros displays a succession ofmedieval palaces. Special attention shouldbe paid to the Talia theatre and the old

Casa de los Obreros, which was recentlyrestored. Among the numerous plazas

in barrio del Carmen, we shoulddraw attention to the garden wherethe only tower left in the oldArab wall of Valencia stands,and the Towers of Serranosand Quart. Before leaving thebarrio, visits to the InstitutValencià d’Art Modern(IVAM) and the CentroCultural la Beneficència (ofthe Diputación de Valencia)are a must.

Palacio de Congresos (Valencia)22

The Central Market of Valencia, amodernist gem inaugurated in 1928, isthe largest in Europe. Across the street,the Lonja de los Mercaderes has beenstanding for more than five hundred years.This building, an exceptional display ofVa l enc i ang o t h i carchitecture,has beendeclared aW o r l dH e r i t a g eMonumentby UNESCO.Nearby, theIglesia de losS a n t o sJuanes, withi t sextraordinaryb a r o q u efacade andcollection ofg r e a tpaintings, andt h e P l a z aRedonda, thefirst moll inEurope according to some historians. Otherplaces of interest for visitors, just tomention a few, are the Bullring, theEstación del Norte, the Palacio del Marquésde Dos Aguas (the seat of the NationalCeramics Museum González Martí), themagnificent building of the Old Hospital,and the numerous parks and gardens

spread throughout the city, particularlythe Viveros Gardens.

At the beginning of the 20th century, thevital centre of the city was transferred tothe Plaza del Ayuntamiento, where the

old Convent of San Francisco once stood.Tall buildings surround the majestic facadeof the City Council and the beautiful PostOffice building. A new Maritime Promenadewas built recently along the beach, apleasant place to take a walk or arefreshment on the shores of theMediterranean.

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Torres de Serranos (Valencia)

La Lonja (Valencia)

The City of Arts and Science, a greatcomplex sponsored by the Generalitat, hasbeen converted into an internationalreference and a symbol of the commitmentto cultural tourism and dynamism withwhich the Valencian Community presentsitself to the world. This recreational-culturalcentre is surprising because of itsarchitecture and its immense capacity forfun, learning and commotion, promotingcitizen participation and cultural awareness.

The City of Arts and Science of Valencia,open during the entire year from Mondayto Sunday, offers a didactic tour throughthe prodigies of science and research, thelatest technology and nature, music andart: a broad offer that complements thetraditional tourism of the ValencianCommunity, and that attracts millions ofvisitors each year.

Along an axle of almost two kilometres,in the old riverbed of the Turia, with asurface of 350.000 square meters, you

can find five great elements thatshare the vocation for culturalawa r enes s and c i t i z enparticipation in a futuristic andu n i q u e a r c h i t e c t u r a lenvironment, designed by

S a n t i a g oCalatrava, ofgreat publ icopen spaces:

The “Hemisfèric”is a singular and

spectacular building, designed by SantiagoCalatrava, which represents a large humaneye, the eye of wisdom. This elementsymbolizes the gaze and observation ofthe world that the visitors discover throughsurprising audiovisual projections.

It has an oval covering that measures morethan 100 meters, inside of which a greatsphere is found that houses the projectionroom, complete with a digital system andIMAX. A 24.000 square meter pool

surrounds this structure creating a complexof astonishing beauty.

The “Umbracle” is a monumental porticoof access for the City of Arts and Sciences,created by a succession of 55 fixed archesand 54 floating arches measuring 18 metersin height, and from its balcony situated onthe north side, a magnificent panoramicof the complex can be enjoyed. Nativevegetation from the Mediterranean region,

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L'Oceanogràfic

the Valencian Community and from tropicalcountries that varie throughout the seasonsof the year, and an interesting sample ofcontemporary sculptures of world-renowned artists are found in what isknown as the “paseo de las Esculturas”.

The Prince Felipe Museum of Sciences isa great XXII century museum thatencourages didactic, interactive and funlearning about everything related to theevolution of life, science and technology.

Interactive exhibitions, numerous researchactivities, and national and internationalmeetings all take place in a Museum thathas obtained important public recognition,demonstrating the success of its approach:the research and spread of science andnew technologies from a fun andentertaining perspective without losing thescientific rigor of the subjects that are dealtwith. Visitors are able to visit large zonesof free access and almost 30.000 squaremeters of exhibitions related to theevolution of life and scientific andtechnological research. The interactivitydistinguishes the Prince Felipe ScienceMuseum that is presented under the slogan:“not touching, not feeling and not thinkingis prohibited”.

The “Oceanográfico” is presented as acentre to research and investigate marineenvironments through the representationof the most important ecosystems of theworld with the flora and fauna thatcharacterizes them. The largest marine

complex in Europe follows a route throughthe seas and oceans of our planet, fromthe Atlantic to tropical habitats, passingthrough the Artic and Antarctic seas. It isan entertaining experience but also oneabout learning, above all, about respectand responsibility for the environment.

The vanguardian architecture- the roofs ofFelix Candela –the distribution of thedifferent aquariums and its scientific,recreational and educational vocation,effectively bring the marine world to thepopulation, sensitizing people about theprotection of fauna and flora, and alsoserving as a platform for scientific research.

The “Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía”completes the artistic component thatrepresents the Generalitat’s decisiveinvestment on culture in its most profoundsense, with science, technology and nature.

As a centre that is born in the XXI century,it has the most modern technologies,adopting its corresponding image to avanguardian and modern space, convertingitself in a cultural dynamic that situatesthe Valencian Community, from its hundred-year-old musical tradition, in a privilegedposition between the regions of the entireworld.

Information and Reservations902 100 032

More information www.cac.es

27L'Hemisfèric

Playa de Xeraco

From the endless sandy beaches anddunes, to the snow-covered peaks of itsmountain ranges, the province of Valenciaoffers visitor a wide range of landscapesand natural areas, which will captivateeveryone. With more than one hundredkilometres of beaches (with the exceptionof the cliffs of Cullera) and shallow waters,

this stretch of the Mediterranean coast isideal for tourists seeking sun and beaches.

The most popular tourist destinations inthe province of Valencia are to be foundalong the coast. Visitors from Spain andabroad mingle with local tourists.Accordingly, there are areas welcoming

local tourism, people wishing to enjoytheir holidays near home, such as Canetd'En Berenguer, Sagunt, la Pobla deFarnals, Alboraya, as well as the beacheslying south of Valencia and Sueca. Thebeaches of Cullera and Gandia are favouredby national tourists, mainly from northernand central Spain, due to the proximity

o f t h e V a l e n c i a nMediterranean coast. Foreigntourists and internationalresidents choose Gandia,Oliva and Valencia as theirfavourite destinations for awel l -deserved hol iday.Others are seduced by thecalm, friendly atmosphereof the beaches of Tavernesde la Valldigna and Xeraco.The r e a r e b eaches ,residential areas and touristlodgings for all tastes andbudgets. Our coast offersa natural environment ofhigh ecological value, whichis kept in good conditions.

The characteristics of the Valencian coastare conditioned by the lakes, pools, floodedareas and dunes populated with exoticvegetation. Numerous Valencian beacheshave been awarded the European blueflag, granted by the European Foundationof Environmental Education, in recognitionfor the quality of the water and thefacilities.

30Castillo y Playa de Cullera

Playa de Gandia

List of beaches in the province of Valencia, from north to south:

• CANET D'EN BERENGUER: Beach of Racó de la Mar. (Certified with the"Q" of Touristic Quality)

• SAGUNT: Beaches of Corinto-Malvarrosa, Almardà (Certified with the"Q" of Touristic Quality) and Port de Sagunt.

• PUÇOL: Beach of Puçol.

• EL PUIG: Beaches of Santa Elvira-La Torreta, dels Plans, Barri delsPescadors, Puig Val-Play Puig and Medicalia.

• LA POBLA DE FARNALS: Beach of la Pobla de Farnals.

• MASSAMAGRELL: Beach of Massamagrell.

• MELIANA: Beach of Meliana.

• ALBORAYA: Beaches of Port Saplaya and Patacona (Certified with the"Q" of Touristic Quality)

• VALENCIA: Beaches of La Malvarrosa-Las Arenas, Pinedo, El Saler, ElCabanyal (Certified with the "Q" of Touristic Quality), la Devesa and ElRecatí.

• SUECA: Beaches of El Perelló-La Llastra, Les Palmeretes, Rey-Mareny deBarraquetes, Bega del Mar and Mareny Blau-Mareny de Vilxes (Certifiedwith the "Q" of Touristic Quality).

• CULLERA: Beaches of Mareny de Sant Llorenç, El Dossel, El Far, LosOlivos, Cap Blanc, El Racó, Sant Antoni, El Marenyet, l'Estany and ElDorado.

• TAVERNES DE LA VALLDIGNA: Beaches of La Goleta and de Tavernes.

• XERACO: Beach of Xeraco (Certified with the "Q" of Touristic Quality)

• GANDIA: Playas D'Ahuir, Nord (Certified with the "Q" of Touristic Quality),Venecia and Marenys de Rafalcaid.

• DAIMÚS: Beach of Los Pedregales (Certified with the "Q" of TouristicQuality).

• GUARDAMAR DE LA SAFOR: Beach of Guardamar.

• BELLREGUARD: Beach of Bellreguard (Certified with the "Q" of TouristicQuality).

• MIRAMAR: Beach of Miramar (Certified with the "Q" of Touristic Quality).

• PILES: Beach of Piles.

• OLIVA: Beach of Oliva (Certified with the "Q" of Touristic Quality).

31

The area of La Serranía is one of the mostrustic and mountainous regions of theprovince, and is thus ideal for trekkersand fans of outdoor sports, with manyforested and leisure areas, such as inTitaguas, Aras del Olmo, the surroundingsof the source of the Tuéjar river and theBenagéber and Loriguilla reservoirs.

The highest peak in the Province ofValencia, the Calderón (1,839 meters), isfound in El Rincón de Ademuz, togetherwith other high mountains such as theCruz de los Tres Reinos, reaching 1,560meters. The GR-10 European long-distancefootpath, coming from the MontesUniversales, enters the Macizo deJavalambre and connects Arcos de lasSalinas with Puebla de San Miguel throughhistorical mountain trails. The recoveryof cattle trails, traditional paths, and oldlumber routes provides the area with anetwork of short-distance footpaths.

Specimens of Hispanic goat and diversebird species can be observed in theReserva Nacional de Caza de la Muela deCortes. The great hydroelectric workshave transformed the landscape of theValle and la Muela over the past fewyears: the Cortes II and the immenseCortada reservoirs form part of one of themost important hydroelectric complexesin Spain. Muela de Cortes conserves arich cultural heritage. The GR-7 long-

distance European footpath crosses theMuela from north to south.

The plateau of Requena includes variousmountain ranges, such as the ones ofBicuerca (Camporrobles, Fuenterrobles),Negrete (Utiel - Requena), Juan Navarro(Requena), Tejo (Chera - Siete Aguas), elRubial and el Moluengo (Villargordo delCabriel). Two natural environments are

especially worthy of mention for theirforests and landscape: the Hoces delCabriel and the mountains of Sinarcas.Both natural areas border the province ofCuenca, and comprise mountain rangessuitable for hiking and outdoor sports.The trekking excursions in the region arestructured around the GR-7, crossing laMuela from north to south through thetowns of Chera and Requena.

32

Embalse de Benagéber (La Serranía)

33

Hoya de Buñol-Chiva comprises mountainousareas of great environmental interest, suchas the Moratillas, the Fresnal and the Cuevadel Turche in Tabarla, the Sierra Martés inYátova, the Sierra del Ave in Dos Aguasand the Sierra de Malacara in Siete Aguas-Buñol. The GR-7 long-distance Europeanfootpath crosses the region by passingthrough Reatillo, Tejo, Mijares, Tabarla andMartés. The network of rivers includes theBuñol, Mijares, Juans and Magro, as wellas the Forata reservoir in Yátova, whichregulates the waters of the Magro.Towards the north, the region of the Valld'Albaida lies between the Serra Grossa,

and the Sierra Benicadell-Ontinyent.The rivers Clariano, Albaida andMicena cross the region, formingbeautiful surroundings includingravines and ponds. The averagealtitude ranges between 200and 400 metres above sea

level, whereas themountain ranges

surrounding thearea reachover 700

meters

(Serra Grossa) and even beyond 1,000meters (Benicadell). The GR-7 Europeanfootpath crosses the region from north tosouth through the towns of Aielo de Malferit,Ontinyent and Bocairent.The region of la Canal de Navarrés is locatedin the centre-southwest of the province.The massif of Caroig is one of themain attractions in the area, alongwith the natural surroundings formedaround the rivers Escalona, Sellentand Júcar. Various naturalenvironments, such as l'Albuferetain Anna, the source of the Fraileriver, the Cueva de la Araña andseveral prehistoric towns are a goodreason to visit the region on foot.The market gardens of Gandia andthe mountains surrounding the cityare a magnificent combination to bediscovered in La Safor, a region ofsignificant contrasts. Twelvekilometres from Gandia stands thespectacular mountainous barrier ofLa Safor, reaching 1,011 meters. Thecirque of la Safor forms an amphitheatre ofvertical stony walls which reach down tothe banks of the Serpis river, separating LaSafor from the Sierra de Ador, with thecanyon formed by the Estret de l'Orxa.The Plà de la Llacuna lies to the

south.

The Valle de Montesa and Xàtiva arefound in la Costera, fringed by the Sierrasde Enguera in the north and Serra Grossain the south. The Cànyoles river flowsdown the Valle de Montesa, and forms anatural barrier between the Valenciancentral plain and the high lands of la

Mancha (Via Augusta and statemotorway). The Serra Grossa begins inFontanars dels Alforins and runs alongfifty kilometres until it joins the Massif ofBuixcarró and the Montdúver. Severalplaces are worthy of mention in the SerraGrossa; the calcareous rock peaks suchas the Penya Roja in Xàtiva, the hills andmountainous formations such as the Estretde les Aigües, where the Albaida riverflows down towards the territories of laRibera to join the Xúquer, and thesurroundings of la Salaella and the Túnelde Sumideros (Vallada).

El Penyó, Vallada (La Costera)

Río cabriel (Requena-Utiel)

The province of Valencia includes eightNatural Parks, which owing to theirimportance deserve a special section:L'Albufera, the Serra Mariola, the Calderonaand the Marjal de Pego-Oliva, Natural Parkof the "Hoces del Cabriel", Turia NaturalPark, Puebla de San Miguel and Chera-Sotde Chera. As with National Parks, theseareas are protected by the autonomousauthorities.

L'Albufera

Located only 11 kilometres south of thecity of Valencia is the lake of the Albufera.The water expanse separated from the seaas a result of the accumulation of sedimentsfrom the rivers surrounding it, the Turiaand the Júcar, and was converted into afresh water lagoon with the passing oftime.

A multitude of species, both native andmigrating, choose this area for theirbiological cycles. For this reason, it hasbeen declared a Special Bird ProtectionArea. The Park is separated from theMediterranean by a stretch of dunesinterspersed by depressions called mallades.

The Centro de Interpretación del Racó del´Olla allows visitors to learn about thePark by organising tours and exhibitions.You can also take a boat ride on the lake,to revive the atmosphere of the old

fishermen and characters of the novels byVicente Blasco Ibáñez, and sample theregional cuisine in one of the numerousrestaurants.

Marjal de Pego-Oliva

The Marjal de Pego-Oliva is an old lagoonwhich, as a result of the siltation process(sediment filling) and the surfacing ofunderground waters, now constitutes avast extension of reed beds with pondsfilled with clean water, in which an oldnetwork of channels can be found.

The wetland area is of great interest forstudies, given its important fauna (storks,grebes, ducks, waterfowls...) and its flora(reed, enea, water lilies...). Moreover, agreat number of migratory birds come hereto complete their vital cycle, in an areacovering nearly one thousand hectares.

Sierra Mariola

The Natural Park of the Serra Mariola islocated between the region of La Valld'Albaida, in the municipality of Bocairent,and the regions of l'Alcoià i El Comtat, in

34

Parque Natural L'Albufera

the province of Alicante. Well-known forits wealth of aromatic and medicinal plantsand the countless water sources, there isno doubt that this is one of the mostbeautiful natural surroundings in theValencian Region. The renowned botanistCavanilles once said that this mountainrange was the most abundant in aromaticand medicinal plants in the whole of Europe.

In addition to the ecological wealth, thepark also includes a rich monumentalheritage. There are many cavas, olddeposits in which snow and ice were storedin winter to be sold later, hermitages,masías (traditional farmsteads) and mineralwater sources.

Serra Calderona

The Serra Calderona, located between theprovinces of Castellón and Valencia, is amountain range separating the Palanciaand Turia rivers from north to south,unfolding through the regions of the AltoPalancia, Camp de Morvedre, Camp deTuria, L´Horta Nord and a small part ofthe Serranos (Alcublas). With an area of60,000 ha. (600 Km2) forming a naturalbarrier between the inland region and theValencian plain in the north, it forms partof the last spurs of the Iberian System andconstitutes one of the most valuable naturalenvironments in the Valencian Region. Theexceptional landscape provides it withunique ecological value.There is an interpretation and receptioncentre for visitors in the village of Náquera.

35Parque Natural Sierra Calderona

Parque Natural de la Serra Mariola - Foto: Crespo y Ramos

Natural Park of the "Hoces del Cabriel"

The Cabriel River serves as adivision between the Valencianand Castilian lands for more than50 km, from the Contrerasreservoir to the confluence of theJúcar River in Cofrentes. Thesinuous course of the river isthe axle of a very broad areathat is hardly transformed andexceptionally conserved, thehabitat of r ich r iversidevegetation and protected birds.The Cabriel Valley is the bestconserved riverside forest ofthe Valencian Community,formed by poplars, willows

and tamarinds, wherecanes, rushes andreeds a lso grownearby. The rocky

walks that surround theriver are covered by a

dense forest of whitepines, with a punctual presenceof Sessile and Valencian oaks.The forest is also rich inindigenous native Mediterraneanplants such as rosemary, mastic,madrones, box trees and SpanishJuniper. From Villargordo delCabriel, one arrives to thespectacular needles of theCuchillos and the FuensecaValley. Between Vadocañasand Villatoya, the Cabriel iswedged into a series of

meanders known as "Las Hoces". FromRequena, one can travel to Villtova andthe Village of Casas del Río.

Turia Natural Park

The stretch of river beds and banks ofthe Turia River, situated between thePedralba and Paterna municipalities, isone of the last forest lungs that survivein the zone of the metropolitan area ofValencia. The park offers a dynamic and

varied landscape with a marked diversityof habitats and species of flora and fauna.The river and its banks, which are of greatecological interest, the Mediterranean pineand shrub forests, and the Valenciangarden are all representative environmentsof this natural area. The zone housesimportant historical and geologicalhermitage elements and also elementsrelated to hydraulic use such as the bronzeage sites or assuts, aqueducts andreservoirs.

36

Parque Natural Hoces del Cabriel

The geographic expansion of the TuriaNatural Park includes the municipalities ofQuart de Poblet, Manises, Paterna, Riba-roja de Turia, l'Eliana, Vilamarxant,Benaguasil, Llíria and Pedralba.

Puebla de San Miguel

From the Park of the Puebla de San Miguel,in the region of the Rincón de Ademuz,some of the most distinguished areas arefound such as the Sabinar de las Blancasmonument, the El Verdinal area with itshigh mountain vegetation with variousmonumental examples of pines, the pineforest of El Pinar Espeso or the pine forestof the Alto de las Barracas, the highestelevation point in the Valencian Communitywith a height of 1.839 meters. In thissector of the term, various monumentaltrees are found such as the Pino Vicenteor the Tejo de la Peguera. Four mountaincabins distributed throughout the area,which belong to the munipality, allowmountain lovers to get close to this heritage.

Chera-Sot de Chera

This natural space, situated in the interiorof the province of Valencia, is includedwithin the municipalities of Chera and Sotde Chera. With a surface area of 6.451,17hectares, it possesses many relevantenvironmental, landscape and culturalvalues, on top of being the site of the firstgeological park of the ValencianCommunity, the Geological Park of Chera.Its territorial environment is also included

in the LIC (Places of Interest for theCommunity) of the Negrete Sierra. Situatedbetween the Valencian regions of the planeof Utiel-Requena and Los Serranos, thisnatural park has an abrupt and mountainousrelief, with heights of around 1.000 meters.Cliffs and narrow passes, beside the BuseoReservoir, they are alternated betweenvegetation of pine, juniper, rosemary,esparto grasses and abundant naturalfountains.

For more information on the natural parksof the Province of Valencia:http://parquesnaturales.gva.es/espnaturales.htm

Parque de la Puebla de San Miguel, (Rincón de Ademuz).Photo of Benjamín Albiach Galán

37Parque Natural Chera - Sot de Chera

Rafting

The unique natural environment andlandscape, together with the privilegedclimate make the province of Valencia aperfect place for outdoor sports.

Nautical sportsOwing to its geographical location, witha coastline of over 100 kilometres, theprovince of Valencia is the perfect settingto enjoy a great variety of nautical sportsin the Mediterranean, thanks to thenumerous nautical and diving clubs, aswell as sailing schools.

Various boat rental options are on offer,such as charter boat rides, cruises alongthe coast, short rides and day excursionsto visit exotic corners on secluded islands.

The satisfaction of catching giltheads andstripped seabreams, sea bass, or dolphinfish near the coast awaits those who enjoyfishing, whether from the beach, a jettyor on private boats.

The different types of sailing disciplinesare another way of enjoying the sea.Various schools and their qualified staffoffer classes in different marinas. Thecalm waters of the Mediterranean and thetype of beaches found in the area are idealfor water crafts and water skiing. Thebeaches of Canet d’en Berenguer, Sagunto,Cullera and Gandia are also excellent forwindsurfing. Finally, those who wish to

40Port Saplaya

discover the beauty of the Valencian coastin depth can dive into the clear waters toadmire the wealth of marine fauna and flora.

Nautical clubsThere are 8 marinas in the province ofValencia with moorings for pleasure boats.Major regattas are scheduled regularly, andcourses for beginners and experts are alsoorganised.

Royal Nautical Club ofValencia. Founded in1903, it is one of theoldest yacht clubs in Spain.The top-quality facilities,with over 1,200 moorings,accommodate a superbfleet of cruise ships. TheClub hosts importantregattas and nationalcompetitions, and waschosen recently as theheadquarters for theAmerica’s Cup 2007.Tel.+34 963679011

Port of Canet d’EnBerenguer. This publicmarina has capacity for 564moorings and can accommodate boats ofup to 12 meters in length. The facilitiescomprise the Club de Regatas Marítimo deSagunto and a school for small sailing crafts.Tel. +34 962608132

Pobla Marina Nautical Club (La Pobla deFarnals). These installations are designedin the style of a sports marina. With morethan 800 moorings, the club canaccommodate boats of up to 15 meters inlength. The marina includes a sailing school.Tel. +34 961463223

Port Saplaya. This attractive “marine village”is located in Alboraya, only 5 kilometresfrom the city of Valencia. Nearly all the 300

moorings belong to the residents of thesurrounding apartments, and it comprisesa sailing school offering classes all yearround.Tel. +34 963550033

El Perelló Nautical Club. Its location, in oneof the channels of the Albufera, providesthis nautical club with a special atmosphere.With capacity for more than 300 boats andfully-equipped facilities, it is the point ofdeparture of deep-sea fishing cruises.Tel. +34 961770386

Port of Cullera. Located at the mouth ofthe Júcar river, the marina has one hundredmoorings and one basin on the river bank.

One of the many activities on offeron the beach of Cullera are thewindsurfing courses.Tel. +34 961721154

Port of Gandia. This marina, locatedin the maritime district of the cityof Gandia, is protected by a longjetty. The Nautical Club, situatedon the north side of the jetty, hascapacity for nearly 500 boats andis equipped with a complete rangeof services (cafeteria, swimmingpools, restaurant, etc.). This is theonly marina with accommodationin the province.Tel. +34 962841059

Ol iva Naut ica l Club. Thesouthernmost marina of the

province, its almost 350 moorings canaccommodate boats of up to 15 meters inlength. There is also a large social club, aswimming pool, as well as a cafeteria andrestaurant.Tel. +34 962853423

41

W a t e r p a r k w i t hattractionsAquopolis is the only aquatic amusementpark in the province of Valencia. Locatednear the city of Cullera, in a calm, naturalenvironment, the Park features swimmingpools of various sizes, slides, rapids,lakes and cataracts, as well as arestaurant, stores and a picnic area amongits numerous attractions and services.

Tel. +34 96 1738052www.aquopolis.esaquopolis.cullera@grpr.com

T h e c i r c u i t d e l acomunitat valencianaRicardo TormoMotorbike racing fans can enjoy racingevents at the most advanced circuit inEurope, famous for i ts des ign,functionality, versatility and for the qualityof the facilities, equipped to welcomethe most famous r iders on theinternational racing circuit.

Located in the municipality of Cheste,the main track is over 4,000 meters long,the longest straight line reaching 876meters, while there are 14 curves - 5right and 9 left - providing a well-balancedrace track. The layout was inspired by

American circuits, where spectators arecomfortably seated in the central area,enabling them to see all that is happeningduring the competition. The stands havecapacity for nearly 60,000 spectators,all with complete view of the circuit.

The Circuit is characterised by the layoutof the buildings outside the trackenclosure, and the paddock parking areaas well as those for the riders, the pressand other services.

The parking area can accommodate upto 21,500 motorcycles, 38,000 cars and850 buses. Various sports events areheld throughout the year, such as theGran Premio de la Comunidad Valenciana,which is part of the Motorcycling WorldChampionship.

Tel:+34 96 2525212/13+34 902 012 899www.circuitvalencia.com

42

Circuit de Velocitat de la Comunitat Valenciana "Ricardo Tormo" (Cheste)

Golf coursesGolf enthusiasts can enjoy themselveson one of the five courses located in atypical Mediterranean landscape, allwell linked witht h e c i t y o fValencia. A truetemptation and achallenge. All weredesigned by well-known specialistsand the variety ofl a y o u t s a n dlandscapes al lowsgolfers to choose thecourse which best fits their level.

Club de Golf Escorpión (Bétera).Tel. +34 961601211This course is much appreciated by high-handicap and senior players. With littlerelief and wide fairways, several pondsdecorate the surroundings and add acertain degree of difficulty. The cosyclubhouse is located in an old 19thcentury farmstead.

Club de Golf Manises.Tel. +34 961534069Fax +34 961523804The oldest Valencian golf course, its 9holes and special atmosphere make it afavourite of many families. The narrowfairways flanked by pine trees haveimpeccable greens surrounded by bunkers.

43

Club de Golf El Bosque (Chiva).Tel. +34 961808009Fax +34 961808008/01Especially attractive due to its singulardesign, the slopes of a deep valley havingbeen incorporated into the layout. Theimportant relief, the ravines and lakes, andits small greens make it an especiallytechnical course.

Foressos Golf (Picassent)Tel. +34 902367663Fax +34 961222219With 18 holes, this course has beendesigned by José Gancedo, opened in2007. Located a few kilometres near theairport, next to the AP-7 highway.

Club de Golf El Saler.Tel. +34 961610384Fax +34 961627366Classified among the 50 best courses inthe world and one of the best in Europe.It is a perfect course for low-handicapplayers with a good stroke. It ischaracterised by very wide fairways, itsparticularly dangerous rough and technicalgreens.

Club de Golf Oliva Nova (Oliva).Tel. +34 962857818Fax +34 962857667Having been open for only a few years, itis already being considered one of the bestcourses by the experts. It includes a largenumber of trees and water represents aconstant challenge throughout the layout,with eight strategically located lakes.

44Senderismo

Adventure sportsFor lovers of sports and adventure, theprovince of Valencia offers a multitudeof possibilities to practice high-risk sportsin direct contact with nature. An attractiveway of discovering beautiful corners ofthis land.

If we take into account that the ValencianRegion forms part of the EuropeanNetwork of Long-Distance Footpaths

connecting various European regions onfoot, it is no surprise then that one ofthe most popular activities should betrekking.

Cycling is another way of combiningsports and tourism. Bikers can use thesignalled trails, entering ravines and

forests, or pedal along the quiet inlandroads to discover the beautiful landscapes.

Horse riding is another possibility to discoverunusual places, and a different way to getto know the province of Valencia. Thereare various companies and organizationsoffering riding, training and jumping courses,excursions through unique, attractive placessuch as the Alto Turia, the Camp de Turiaand the Camp de Morvedre, or simply aride on the seashore.

Canoeing on the Júcar, Turia and Cabrielrivers or in the reservoir of Benagéber,and sailing along rivers through ravinessuch as those of the Turia river inChulilla are yet other activities to beenjoyed. The desire to fly hasalways been a strong attractionfor mankind, and it is possible toenjoy hot-air balloon and ultralightplane rides, including all safetymeasures, and accompanied bya specialised monitor. Glidingand soaring can also bepracticed, with a paraglideror delta wing, accordingto the wind and your skilllevel. A stimulating ideain which the challengeto fly is combined withintense emotion, and asuperb perspective ofthe p rov ince o fValencia.

45

Vuelo en globo. Foto: Totglobo

Mountain climbing

Rice, seafood and fideuà

Mediterranean cuisineThe cuisine in the province of Valencia ischaracterised by the famous Mediterraneanflavour, the wealth of its produce and thesimplicity of the recipes, which are, withouta doubt, highly appreciated by the mostdemanding palates.

Within the wide variety of recipes, paella(prepared with chicken andrabbit, snails, garrofón(type of bean),green beans,olive oil,

t o m a t o ,paprika, rice,saffron and salt)i s s t i l lunquestionably themost universal dish. Takinginto account that the Valencian Region isthe largest rice producer in Spain, manyvarieties of excellent rice dishes can beenjoyed in all towns and villages, both inlandand along the coast, such as arroz al horno(baked rice), con costra, amb fésols i naps(with beans and turnips), as well as fishand seafood rice dishes: arroz a banda,black rice, etc.

There are many other temptations, such asfideuà, a dish originating from the region of

Gandia, in which rice is replaced by vermicellicooked in seafood broth, or all i pebre, aneel stew from the area of l’Albufera.

Fish and seafood form an integral part ofthe Valencian cuisine. With little preparation,it is usually roasted on coal or on grills,sprinkled with lemon and a light sauce.Stuffed squids, sepia, octopus stew, spicysnails, tellinas (a type of shellfish), and

steamed mussels are offered as tapasin many bars. The

restaurants offer anexquisite variety

o f

d i s h e s ,s u c h a s

s a r d i n e s ,hake, red mullet,

sole, sea bass, friedfish and a selection of the

best seafood. Any of these dishes,with a typical Valencian salad as a starter,and accompanied by white wine, will satisfyeven the most exacting palate.

Inland, the cuisine is hearty and generous,based on strong flavours, with dishes richin proteins and calories such as the olla (lit.,the pot), rice casserole, gachas, migas,gazpacho manchego, ajoarriero, morteruelo,pork dishes from the matanza (slaughter ofthe pig), as well as stews and meats in the

48Valencian wine

Valencian paella

northern area. The region of La Safor offersthe interesting Ruta dels Porrats, local fairsin honour of different saints, where turrón(a type of nougat) and sweets are sold,and one can enjoy different leisure andcultural activities, as well as sample someof the most appreciated dishes of the localcuisine.

The towns of Oliva, Benirredrà-Gandia andla Font d’En Carròs celebrate porrats inJanuary; Ròtova and Potries in February;L’Alqueria de la Comtesa, Tavernes de laValldigna and Simat de la Valldigna in July.Many varieties of sausages are also typicalin Requena, where the Feria del EmbutidoArtesano y de Calidad takes place everyFebruary, and in Utiel, where the UtielGastronómica fair is celebrated in October.

These dishes are usually accompanied bylocal wines (Denomination of Origin Utiel-Requena and Valencia). Finally, mistelaand moscatel sweet wines are an excellentoption to accompany a dessert, as well asoranges from the Valencian groves, or oneof the many cakes and pastries,such as pumpkin sweets(arnadí and arrop),s w e e t p o t a t opastissets or anisdoughnuts. Visitorsshould not forego theopportunity to samplehorchata withf a r t o n s i nAlboraya.

Horchata and fartons (Alboraya), photo Carles Muñoz.49

Olivas

Valencia, a land of craftsThe magic of manual arts and crafts liveson, thanks to the expert hands whichtransform natural products, creatingoriginal designs and popular art whichcoexists with industrial and modernproduction characterising present-dayValencian society.

The fine ceramic designs of Manises arelegendary, with their golden shades andchromatic contrasts of blue on white.Some of the most outstanding piecescan be seen in the Museu de la Cerámicade Manises. Paterna also has its ownunique ceramics tradition, especially withthe socarrats, and the town of TavernesBlanques is home to the world-famousceramics company, Lladró.

The towns of Alaquàs, Burjassot, Paterna,as well as Alzira and Canals, further awayfrom Valencia, are renowned for theirproduction of ceramic pots, pans andflowerpots. These are sold in, amongother places, the yearly escuradeta, anarts and crafts fair located in thesurroundings of the Cathedral of Valencia,in the middle of May.

The region of La Vall d’Albaida is famousfor its blankets, tapestries and bed andhome linen. The powerful textile industryis representative of its traditions, whenloom work was still a hand-made craft.Glass production is still an important

50

Socarrat ceramic

activity in the town of l’Olleria, withhand-made stain-glass production andblown glass pieces. Finally, wax becomesan art in Albaida.

Gifts and canes made of nettle tree woodare produced in Jarafuel. Hand-held fansare also made in Aldaia, Godella, Alaquàsand Valencia with noble materials suchas nacre, ivory and wood, producingarticles of great quality and beauty.

Wicker, rattan and basketwork arecharacteristic of the region of la Costera,especially in Vallada and Moixent.

A sweet touch is provided by the artisanproduction of honey in Ayora and Montroy(where the annual honey fair of Valenciatakes place), without forgetting the regionthe Camp de Túria, famous for itstraditional sugared almonds and nougatsfrom Casinos.

Ceramics from Manises

51

Hand-held fans (Aldaia)

Fireworks

The Valencian character is joyful andfestive. Its origins and traditions havebeen kept alive, contributing to theattractiveness of the festivities, whichconserve the essence of its past. Fiestasand celebrations follow one anotherthroughout the year in the province ofValencia.

San Antonio Abad.Winter is the season of fire, of the devilsand the ridicule. The bonfires of SanAntonio Abad, between January 16 and17, launch the cycle of fire, with morethan 200 celebrations in the province.These rituals light up the nights withbonf i res, porrats, panel lets andmultitudinous blessings. The bonfire inCanals exceeds the normal height for thistype of fire, and is the highest bonfire inthe world, reaching between 20 and 25meters.

Las Fallas.From March 14 to 19, the Fallas take tothe streets of the city of Valencia in atrue explosion of art, music, gunpowderand emotion. The whole city is transformedon the night of the 15th, with the Plantà(installation) of more than 500 monumentsmade of papier-mâché and wood whichdominate the streets during the fiesta.

The Valencian baroque style is noticeablein the typical dresses and the offering tothe Virgen de los Desamparados.Gunpowder is the star of the mascletaes

Fallas (Valencia)54

in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, the fireworksand the daily despertaes. Fire puts an endto the fiesta with the spectacular Cremà,when all the Fallas are set ablaze in acelebration where fervour, gunpowder,applauses and a few tears are combined.

Other Valencian towns and villages celebrateand participate in the Fallas with greatenthusiasm, such as Gandia, Alzira, Xàtiva,Torrent and Sagunt.

Easter.The Easter celebrations are marked bythe representations of the Passion, theprocessions on Good Friday and on theSunday of Resurrection. The celebrationsin the marine quarters of the city ofValencia have a long history, withcolourful, magnificent processions in whichBiblical characters and members of thebrotherhoods participate.

The last days of life of Jesus Christare represented by local actors inthe towns of Benetússer andMoncada, on Good Thursday andFriday.of the Puríssima Sang has beenorganising the Easter celebrationssince the 15th century, andthe most impressiveevent is the ascent ofthe image of Christ tothe Calvary on themorning of GoodFriday, as well as theauction of the pasosand large tunics forthe procession of theHoly Burial.On the Sunday ofR e s u r r e c t i o n ,numerous crowdsc e l e b r a t e t h eprocession of theE n c u e n t r o(Encounter): Gandiahas recuperated theVisitatio Sepulchri,an original eventdating from 1550,i n A l f a r r a s íl’Angelet de laCorda, in TorrentLa Regina del’Encontre and inTitaguas, Tuéjarand Castielfabibthe Cortesías delEncuentro.

55

Holy Week

Corpus.The maximum exaltation of Christ andCatholic religion are celebrated in hundredsof processions, which have inherited baroquecustoms. Their recovery, especially inValencia and Xàtiva, allows the popularscenes and traditions to be represented inthe streets.

Before the procession, the rocas parade inthe streets (carriages on which Biblicalmysteries are represented), allegorical figures(Biblical, giants and large-headed characters),dance groups, ciriolots (elderly carriers oflarge candles) and the disquieting figure ofthe Moma, a man dressed in whiterepresenting virtue.

Special mention should be made of theprocessions in Gandia, Almàssera, Foios,Ontinyent and the carpets of flowers ofPicanya.

Moors and Christians.The intensity of the celebrations of Moorsand Christians over the past decades has

extended their popularity to a great part oftowns and villages in the province. Forseveral days, comparsas (groups dressedas Moors or Christians) simulate ruthlessbattles with harquebus in a display of fantasyand magical spectacle in the streets of thesetowns. The comparsas march, dressed insumptuous costumes to the rhythm of thestirring music, during a celebration filledwith history and intrigue, which allowsmany people to participate as actors andspectators.

The first celebration takes place in Bocairent,in honour of Sant Blai, from the February1 to 5, followed by, among others, thoseof Ontinyent from the third Thursday ofAugust in honour of the Santíssim Crist del’Agonia and those of Albaida in honour ofthe Mare de Déu del Remei from September29 to October 11.

Bulls.Bulls are a very popular element in manysummer fiestas, mainly in the northern andinland regions of the province of Valencia:bulls with fire balls on their horns, calledembolados, are set free or tied with a leash,and run down the streets in various townsand villages in the province of Valencia. Aseries of intense festivities are celebratedin Chiva during the second fortnight of

56 Corpus

in Chiva during the second fortnight ofAugust, with bulls as the main attraction.The entrances of bulls of Quatretonda takeplace at the end of June and in Ayora inmid-August. The freeing of the bulls in thetowns of l’Horta Nord and the Camp deTúria, during the summer months, and theSetmana de Bous of Algemesí during thethird-fourth week of September, are someof the most outstanding examples.

Fireworks.Any occasion is appropriate for Valenciansto express their festive character withgunpowder, noise, colourful fireworks andmascletaes.

Symbolic firework battles between festerostake place in many towns during the fiestas.The celebrations in honour of the patronsaint of Paterna, the Christ of Faith, takeplace on the last Sunday of August andfeature the cordaes. For 30 minutes,thousands of firecrackers make their waybetween the walls and the crowd in aspectacular game of light and sound.

57Moors and Christians (Ontinyent)

Mascletà

La Tomatina de Buñol.On the morning of the last Wednesdayof August. The fiesta dates back to 1945,and at present, more than 30,000 peoplefrom around the world participate in theevent. Five loads of tomatoes are dumpedalong 400 meters on the main street, atotal of about 125,000 kilos. Then, agreat battle of mature tomatoes startsand lasts approximately one hour. Thefiesta has been declared of InternationalTourist Interest.

Les danses de carrer.Different variations of fandango, jota,bolero and seguidilla also form part ofsome festivities in the province ofValencia. The music of the dolçaina andthe rhythm of the tabalet and postissesaccompany dances throughout theprovince: Casas Bajas, from August 6 to8; Chelva, last ten days of August;Bocairent, from August 23 to 27;Guadassuar, on the last week of August;Carlet, on the second week of September;la Font de la Figuera, on September 8and the following Saturday, and l’Aplecde Danses in la Vall d’Albaida, on thesecond or third Saturday of September.Special mention should be made of l’Entràde les Alfàbegues in Bétera, one of themost colourful events of the summer,with impressive regional costumes andthe striking Alfàbegues (basil plantsreaching over two meters in height)travelling across the town.

58 The Tomatina (Buñol)

The catholic festivity of the Nativity ofthe Virgin is celebrated in almost twohundred Valencian towns. Parades andprocessions, pilgrimages, street andprocession dances, bullfighting and amultitude of ritual events are organisedin honour of the celebrated Virgin. Thecelebrations in Algemesí in honour of theMare de Déu de la Salut,dating back from 1247,are especially worthy ofmention, as they featuret h e Mu i x e r a ng a : acol lect ion of ancientchoreographies and humantowers which precede asuccession of dances,ending just before theentrance role of the Virgin.September 7 and 8.

Fairs.The first fair on the calendaris the Fira de juliol ofValencia, celebrated since1871. The event concludes with anornamental “battle of flowers”, in whichthousands of flowers are thrown amongthe public in the paseo de la Alameda,where there are pavilions and stalls forthose who enjoy the fiesta.

The Fira d’Agost in Xàtiva takes placefrom August 14 to 20, and dates backto 1250. The cultural events includetheatre, music (parades, processions,international folkloric performances) and

activities for all ages. Around October 3,for one week, Gandia celebrates thefestivities in honour of Sant Francesc deBorja and the fiesta honouring its patronsaint, whose origins go back to theprivilege which king Jaume II granted thecity to organise the cattle fair for SanMiguel.

Finally, the celebrations and fairs of theVendimia deserve a special mention,celebrating the grape harvest, the preparationof the wine and the protector of thevineyards. Bulls, offerings, processions andverbenas are organised during these fairs,which take place at the end of August inhonour of the Virgen de los Dolores inRequena; in Utiel, from September 6 to 15,for the Virgen del Remedio, and in Chestefor San Lucas Evangelista, in October.

59The Muixeranga (Algemesí)

Fiesta of les Alfàbegues (Bétera)

Province of ValenciaLocation: Between 40º 13’ and 38º 41’ N(north) and 0º 01’ and 1º 32’ O (west).Eastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula.

Total area (km2): 10.776 km2

Kilometres of coastline: 107 km lineal

Highest peak: 1839 m. (Monte Calderón)

Climate

Average temperature 20’ 8ºC Summer;9’1º C WinterNº Hours of sun per year 2.759 hours ofsun

Population

Total inhabitants: 2.463.592 inhab.Provincial Capital:Valencia / 805.304 inhab.

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Germany Avda. Marqués de Sotelo, 3-6ºValencia +34 963106253

Austria Convento Santa Clara, 10Valencia +34 963522212

Belgium Gran Vía ramón y Cajal, 33Valencia +34 963802909

Brazil Polígono Industrial Fte. Del JarroPaterna +34 961340012

Colombia Cronista Carreres, 9 – 1Valencia +34 963533549

Ivory Coast Pelayo, 7Valencia +34 963515049

Costa Rica Transit, 2 – 4- 3ºValencia +34 963636111

Chile Marqués de Sotelo, 4 – 1ºValencia +34 902500798

Denmark Cirilo Amorós, 68Valencia +34 963335719

Dominican Rep. Troya, 2º Valencia +34 963521780

Ecuador Alfonso el Magnánimo, 1Valencia +34 963519840

El Salvador Cirilo Amorós, 53 – 5ºValencia +34 963527058

U.S.A. Dr. Romagosa, 1 – 2ºValencia +34 963516973

Finland Guillem de Castro, 81 – 6ºValencia +34 963525250

Philippines Luis Santángel, 31Valencia +34 963361036

France Cronista Carreres, 11Valencia +34 963510359

Great Britain Colón, 25 – 5Valencia +34 963520710

Guatemala Dr. Moliner, 2 – 8ºValencia +34 963392543

Haiti Lauria, 30Valencia +34 963515781

Honduras Pl. Honduras, 37 – 43Valencia +34 963722898

Hungary Alvaro de Bazán, 3Valencia +34 963933631

Iceland Porta de la Mar, 4 –3Valencia +34 963517275

Italy Avda. del Puerto, 310 – 2ºValencia +34 963061340

Latvia Moratín, 14 – 10ºValencia +34 963440112

Mexico G.V. Marqués del Turia, 43Valencia +34 963526558

Monaco Mª Cristina, 1Valencia +34 963514795

Norway Avda. del Puerto, 312Valencia +34 963310807

Netherlands G.V. Germanías, 18 – 18Valencia +34 963414633

Panama Alicante, 19 – 1ºValencia +34 963303028

Peru Xàtiva, 24Valencia +34 963515927

Poland Cº Nuevo de Picanya, 31 – 1ºValencia +34 963580002

Seychelles G.V. Marqués del Turia, 82Valencia +34 963333174

Sierra Leona Cirilo Amorós, 48 – 3ºValencia +34 963513990

Sweden Porta de la Mar, 4 – 8Valencia +34 963940375

Switzerland Cronista Carreres, 9 – 7ºValencia +34 963518816

Turkey Jesús, 30 – 9ºValencia +34 963856470

Uruguay Colón, 48 – 4Valencia +34 963524044

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CommunicationsManises

Tel. +34 961598500 Information: +34 961598515Flight information: +34 961598810The international airport of Valencia is located 8,5 Km. from the centre of the city ofValencia, in the municipality of Manises. Regular and charter flights. Aeorotaxi servicesavailable.Radio-Taxi (Manises): +34 961521155

More information:www.aena.es

Trains

Valencia: Estación del Norte. RENFE. (Euromed – Alaris – Cercanías – Regional). C/ Xàtiva,24 – Valencia – Tel. 963520202. Information and Reservations: 902240202.From the Estación del Norte located in the centre, declared an Artistic National Monument,Renfe offers links with the main Spanish cities and the European railway network.

Gandia: tel. +34 962865471Sagunt: tel. +34 962660728Xàtiva: tel. +34 962273333Ferrocarriles de la Generalitat: +34 963581111

www.renfe.eswww.fgv.es

Roads

The A-7 motorway is linked with the European motorway network. Links with the nationalroad network: N-III, N-340, N-234, N-332 and the A-3 Madrid – Valencia motorway.

Aumar

Paseo de la Alameda, 36 – Tél. +34 96 337 20 02Roads, DGT : Tél : +34 96 341 38 33

www.aumar.es

Estación del Norte

65

Port

Transmediterránea. Maritime Station – Port of Valencia. Tel. +34 902454645

www.valenciaport.com

Bus station

The central bus station of Valencia connects most towns and villages in the province,the Valencian Region, as well as national and international destinations.Tel. +34 963497222

www.estaciondeautobuses.net

Metro Valencia

There are two metro lines in Valencia: line 1 and line 3, and one tramline: line 4.The three lines are linked, allowing users to travel through the city and to variousmunicipalities in the surrounding area easily and comfortably. Tel. 900 46 10 46The line 5 Metro now functions to facilitate transportation between the Airport andthe city of Valencia. Tel. +34 900 46 10 46.

www.metrovalencia.com

Taxis (Valencia ciudad)

Auto-Taxis Tel. +34 963959560.Mobile: +34 689 122316

Cooperativa Valenciana de Taxis Tel. +34 963740202

Onda-Taxi Tel. +34 963475252

Radio-Taxi Tel. +34 963703333

Rapid-Taxi Tel.+34 963747388/730973

Taxi Inglés Tel.+34 609 682763 / +34 629 055810

Taxired Tel.+34 93833235 / +34 609 616623

Taxis y Conductores Tel.+34 963752210 / 340195

Tele-Taxi Tel. +34 963571313

Useful telephone numbersFire Brigade 080

Centre for Women 24 hours +34 900 54 08 88

Red Cross +34 96 367 73 75

Generalitat Valenciana 012

Guardia Civil 062

Infosalud +34 900 161 161

Local Police 092

National Police 091

Maritime Rescue +34 900 202 202

Special Emergency Service 085 – 112

24-hour Chemists +34 900 500952

Civil Protection 085

Port of Valencia

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Tourist Info Direction Poblation Telephone

OIT Agullent Calle Major, 4 (Casa de la Cultura) Agullent +34 962907472Albaida Plaza Pintor Segrelles, 19 Albaida +34 962390186Almàssera Camino del Mar, s/n Almàssera +34 961862552OIT Alpuente Avda. José Antonio Alpuente +34 962101228/+34 962101001Alto Turia Ctra. comarcal 234, Km. 73 Tuéjar +34 961635084Alzira Plaza del Reino, s/n Alzira +34 962419541Bellreguard Pº Mediterráneo, s/n Bellreguard +34 962819320Bocairent Plaza Ayuntamiento, 1 Bocairent +34 962905062Canet d'En Berenguer Paseo Marítimo, s/n Canet d'en Berenguer +34 962136568Camp de Turia C/ Pla de L'Arc, s/n Lliria +34 962793619OIT-Chulilla Plaza de la Baronía 1 (bajos Ayto.) Chulilla +34 961657979OIT Cofrentes Plaza de España, 6 Cofrentes +34 961894316Cullera C/ Riu, 38 Cullera +34 961720974Cullera Faro Plaza Faromar, s/n Cullera +34 961720974Cullera Playa Plaza de la Constitución, s/n Cullera +34 961731586Daimús Pl. Alcalde Francisco Castelló, s/n Daimús +34 962803822Gandia Marqués del Campo, s/n Gandia +34 962877788Gandia Playa Pº Marítimo Neptuno, s/n Gandia +34 962877788Jalance C/ De la Industria, 11 Jalance +34 961897171Miramar Avda. de la Mediterrànea, s/n Miramar +34 962802165Manises Avda. País Valencià, 19 Manises +34 961525609Oliva Passeig Lluis Vives, s/n Oliva +34 962855528Ontinyent Plaza de Santo Domingo, 13 Ontinyent +34 962916090Port Saplaya C/ Del Batlle, 1 bajo Alboraya +34 963729283Patacona-Alboraya Avda. Mare Nostrum, s/n Alboraya +34 963190226La Pobla de Farnals Plaza París, s/n La Pobla de Farnals +34 961460928Renfe (Valencia) C/ Xàtiva, 24 Valencia +34 963528573OIT Paterna C/ Médico Ballester, 23 Paterna +34 963053124Piles Paseo Marítimo, s/n Piles +34 962831762 (Ayto.)Puçol Plaça Rosa dels Vents, s/n Puçol +34 618771089Requena C/ García Montes, s/n Requena +34 962303851Rincón de Ademuz Paraje Los Centenares, s/n Castielfabib +34 978783227Rótova Plaça Major, 7 Rótova +34 962957088Sagunt Plaza Cronista Chabret, s/n Sagunt +34 962655859Serra C/ Sagunt, 31 - bajo Serra +34 961688125Sueca C/ Sequial, 13 Sueca +34 961772627/+34 962039150El Perelló (Sueca) Avda. de Sueca, s/n El Perelló +34 961772627Tavernes de la Valldigna Avda. de la Marina, s/n Tavernes de la Valldigna +34 962885264Utiel C/ Puerta Nueva, 11 Utiel +34 962171103Valencia - Paz C/ Paz, 48 Valencia +34 963986422Valencia Plaza de la Reina,19 Valencia +34 963153931Valencia-Playa Paseo de Neptuno, 2 Valencia +34 963557108Valencia-Aeropuerto Terminal Aeropuerto Valencia Manises +34 961530229Valencia - Diputación C/ Poeta Querol, s/n (Teatro Principal) Valencia +34 963514907Xàtiva Albereda Jaume I, 50 Xàtiva +34 962273346Xeraco Avda. Migjorn, s/n Xeraco +34 962888261

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