Valencia remained a well kept secret for a long time. Only a lucky few discovered the city while Madrid and Barcelona remained more desirable neighbours. City topics were aimed at locals and they liked it that way. Expats have more recently been moving to this fine city in larger numbers. Residents of Valencia now seem okay with that and are friendly to foreigners.
Founded on a river bank by the Romans, Valencia boasts an eventful history that includes early occupation by the Moors and later renewal over seven hundred and fifty years ago.
Flood benefits
A more recent tragic event changed the face of the city forever. The massive flood of 1957 resulted in the riverbed being relocated to the west of the city. The old course of the Turia has been turned into a magnificent green lung.
Today this enormous park overflows with trees, recreational spaces and an impressive City of Arts and Sciences. It is a highly popular area with Valencian and expat residents who love to relax, read, walk, go running or cycling, picnic and enjoy communicating together.
City centre
The old city is one of the largest in existence. Two gate towers still remain proudly where the old city walls once stood. Tiny streets weave incessantly between numerous impressive monuments from past centuries. A stunning cathedral is complimented by an abundance of churches. The city is vibrant.
The compact city centre of later year reveals a wonderful town hall, beautiful post office, traditional bull ring and impressive railway station. The central market hall offers a veritable kaleidoscope of delicious produce for every palate. Visit one of the city’s many plazas large and small to enjoy their fountains and relax.
Coastline
Then there are the beaches! A few kilometres through urban sprawl towards the harbour, a vista appears to warm the soul. The juxtaposition of bright sand and deep Mediterranean waters are a sight to behold. Breathe in the calm atmosphere, view the distant horizon and feel the energy of the city pleasantly dissipate.
Farther afield, the airport is easily reachable by subway or road within twenty minutes while the nearby beautiful sandy beaches are second to none.
By Vincent Green, Jun 11 2018
