Mary Assumption IN VALENCIA
August 15 2025
Mary Assumption or La Asunción de la Virgen María is a national public holiday so expats may notice that most shops are likely to be closed. There are festivities including musical performances and traditional dance. The the theme is religious in nature and focussed on the cathedral.
Its full name is Metropolitan Cathedral-Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady or Iglesia Catedral Basílica Metropolitana de la Asunción de Nuestra Señora Santa María de Valencia. As the name suggests, it is dedicated to the Assumption of Mary.
This is celebrated in August when a procession to transfer the Virgin from the he chapel of the church of the Miracle or Parròquia de la Mare de Déu del Miracle-Sant Maximilià Maria Kolbe located on Calle del Doctor Vicent Zaragoza to the cathedral.
Steeped in history reaching back to the fourteenth century this follows on from King Jaime reconquering the city in 1238. The first stone of the cathedral was laid in 1262.
WALKING IN VALENCIA
Walking in Valencia reveals a compact city centre that is pleasing on the eye, with architecture from many periods. The expansive beach invites with its smooth sand and distant horizon. The Turia offers greenery, blossoms and shade on hot summer days.
The main city beach in Valencia is known as Playa Malvarrosa, which includes Playa del Cabanyal. Well over two kilometres in length, this beautiful stretch of sand is as peaceful off season as it is popular during warmer weather. There is more than enough space to bathe, relax and play ball games.
