Rice Museum in Valencia

Although rice is brown, the grain varieties grown around Valencia are refined to create a white, moist version used traditionally in paella, the popular local dish. Apparently the three sorts grown in Spain are known as Bahía, Senia, and Bomba, with the latter being the best quality.

Although rice is presumed to have been grown here over 1,000 years ago, it was the Arabs who made it popular. When the country was reclaimed from the Moors, the popularity of rice remained high, a fact that is reflected in the Rice Museum.

The Museo del Arroz is housed in a former, commercially functioning rice mill. Built during the early 1900’s, it is here that visitors can discover rice processing and production methods.

Three floors reveal the ancient machinery, comparing it with more modern technology and offer an overview of the history and influence this particular semi-aquatic plant had on Valencian culture over such a long period of time.

The wetlands around the lagoon of Albufera to the south of the city offer ideal conditions for the cultivation of rice. Expats who show more concern for the source of their food and sustainability will be pleased to discover an opportunity to adopt a section of rice paddy through CrowdFarming in nearby Solana or purchase at the end of the season. Both traditional japonica and jasmine rices are available for delivery in an ecologically sound manner.

By Vincent Green, February 20 2024