Table of Content
Who Founded Valencia?
Valencia was established as a Roman Colony in 138 BC by the consul Decimus Junius Brutus Callaicus. The city was named after Valentia Edetanorum.
What Does the Name Valencia Mean?
The name comes from the word “Valentia” and means “valour” – bravery, strength, fortitude. The people of Valencia are called Valencian people, or simply Valencianos.
Hot, Hot, Hot!
The maximum temperature goes up to 42° C! … And the minimums temperature is about 16° C which means that the winter is very mild and short. Perfect!
The Third Largest City in Spain
After Madrid and Barcelona, with its population of around 790,000 Valencia is the third largest city in Spain! The province and the capital share the same name.
Economy of Valencia
You probably think that the leading economy in Spain is Madrid or Barcelona? No, they are not. Valencia is a leading economic centre in Spain! The city produces textiles, metals, chemicals, toys, automobiles, agricultural and horticultural products, and ceramic tiles (azulejos) which are exported to other Spanish and foreign cities around the World.
The Biggest Port
The port of Valencia is the biggest one on the Mediterranean western coast. The Port of Valencia is the first in Spain with container traffic as it handles 20% of Spain’s export.
Siesta is Equal to Law
… and the streets are literally empty between 14:00 and 17:00! Don’t even think about searching for a restaurant, you won’t find any.
Yo No Hablo Ingles!
I hope you understand some Spanish or at least the Body language of South Europe! You can hardy find someone who speaks English … Even the younger people don’t.
Kiss, Kiss
In Valencia (but also in whole Spain) people kiss on each cheek.
Micalet Tower
Micalet Tower is home to seven and a half ton bell who is believed to protect Valencia from storms and evil.
The Holy Grail
The Holy Grail (the cup of Jesus from the last supper) is kept in the cathedral in Valencia.
Two Official Languages
Yes, like in Barcelona, people speak two official languages: Valenciano (Catalan dialect) and Spanish.
Valencian Golden Age
The Valencian Golden Age (15th century) was during the Kingdom of Aragon .
The Biggest Market
Valencia is home to the biggest European market for fresh products! It is also one of the oldest in Europe. The central market was designed in 1914 by Francisco Guardia and Alejandro Soler and was inaugurated by King Alfonso XIII in 1928. Over 8000 m² inside are home to 900 stands who are selling many different types of food, seasonal fruit and vegetables, cold meats, seafood, fish, cheeses, baked goods, sweets, drinks, olives, spices, and lots of wine. There is also a snail stand (as many locals prefer their paella with snails instead of chicken or seafood…).
La Paella
The original paella comes from the Valencian region. Traditionally, the paella Valenciana was made with vegetables, beans, chicken, rabbit, and snails … plus whatever was to hand around the rice fields and countryside.
River or Park
The Turia has probably the most interesting story of Valencia to tell. The fascinating modern example of a landscape wasn’t always an 8 km long and 200 wide monumental green park in the historic center of the city. Turia River, as the name says, was a river.
If you have some interesting facts about Valencia, please share them in the comment section 🙂
Enjoy the day!
