Tag: Gandia Heritage Sites

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Collegiate Church of Santa Maria de Gandia

Gandia Plaza Major

Collegiate Church of Santa Maria de Gandia: A Majestic Monument of Gothic and Renaissance Grandeur The Collegiate Church of Santa Maria de Gandia, also known as the Colegiata de Santa María de Gandia, is one of the most important and emblematic landmarks of the Valencian Community in Spain. This magnificent Gothic church, located in the heart of Gandia’s historic district, has stood as a spiritual and cultural cornerstone for centuries. With its majestic architecture, rich historical significance, and connection to the powerful Borgia (Borja) family, the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria remains a symbol of the city’s religious heritage and its artistic evolution. This article will delve into the history, architectural splendor, religious significance, and cultural impact of this monumental church. 1. Historical Overview Origins and Early History The Collegiate Church of Santa Maria de Gandia dates back to the late 14th century when its construction began under the reign of King Alfonso IV of Aragon, also known as Alfonso the Benign. At that time, Gandia was a thriving town within the Kingdom of Valencia, and the construction of a grand church signaled the town’s growing importance in both political and religious spheres. The church was originally built on the…

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Ducal Palace of Gandia

The Ducal Palace of Gandia (Palau Ducal de Gandia) is a landmark of immense historical, architectural, and cultural significance in the Valencian Community of Spain. Located in the heart of Gandia, this majestic palace has been a silent witness to centuries of history, from its origins in the Middle Ages to its current status as a cultural and historical monument. The palace is not only a masterpiece of architecture but also a symbol of the city’s rich religious heritage and a testament to the influence of the powerful Borgia family. Historical Background The history of the Ducal Palace of Gandia dates back to the 14th century when it was initially constructed as a defensive fortress. The palace’s origins are closely linked to the history of the Kingdom of Valencia, which was established by King James I of Aragon following the Reconquista. Gandia, strategically located near the coast, became an important town within the kingdom, and the need for a fortified residence for the local lords led to the creation of what would eventually become the Ducal Palace. The most significant chapter in the palace’s history began in 1485, when the estate was acquired by the Borgia family, one of the…

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Las Fallas in Gandia

Las Fallas is one of the most vibrant and culturally significant festivals in the Valencian Community of Spain, and the city of Gandia, located in this region, celebrates the event with a fervor and creativity that reflects its deep-rooted traditions. This festival, which has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity since 2016, is a grand celebration of art, community, and history, blending ancient customs with modern expressions of creativity and social commentary. Origins and Evolution of Las Fallas The origins of Las Fallas date back to the Middle Ages, rooted in the ancient tradition of carpenters burning their old wooden tools and materials on the eve of Saint Joseph’s Day, the patron saint of carpenters, on March 19. This act of burning the old to welcome the new eventually evolved into the creation of elaborate effigies known as ninots, which are the centerpiece of the festival. Over time, the simple bonfires became increasingly artistic and intricate, turning into massive, colorful sculptures that today dominate the streets of Gandia and other cities in the Valencian region during the festival. Each neighborhood in Gandia participates in Las Fallas by forming a falla committee, which is responsible for…

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Castillo de Bayren / Castell de Bairén

Castillo de Bayren / Castell de Bairén  Bayren Castle If you feel like having a nearby excursion that incorporates a gentle hike as well as a taste of local history, then maybe a visit to the ruined Bayren Castle on the northern outskirts of Gandia could be the answer. It was probably first built as a Roman fortification and look-out post rather than as protection for local towns, and dates back further than the founding of Gandia itself around 1240. First mentioned in reference to a battle in 1097, the castle itself is now in a ruined state but has recently been the subject of a restoration project. As a result, the whole area it occupies is now very much more visitor friendly, and has been designated an archaeological park. Parc Arqueològic del Castell de Bairén You can park your car at the base of the rock and make your way up the newly-constructed trail that leads to the summit and the castle itself, with plenty of resting and viewing points along the way. After an ascent of some 106m above sea-level you arrive at the summit and are rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding area in all directions,…

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Parpallo Cave – an excursion

Parpallo Cave  A mountain walk with a bit of pre-history! Coming from Gandia, just before the outskirts of La Drova, is the starting point for several beautiful and well-marked mountain walks in the Parpalló-Borrell conservation area. However, at the Parpallo Cave – Information Centre there, one can take the opportunity to discover more than just mountain walks because it is also the starting point for a guided tour to the famous “Cueva del Parpalló” – a cave of great archaeological significance. Inhabited by ancient man from about 29,000 until 10,000 years ago, this cave was believed to be a meeting point for the various clans that lived along the Mediterranean coast at the time, facilitating trade as well as increasing the gene pool amongst the different groups. Of great significance are the very many examples of cave art (mainly scratched-out pictures on the rock) that were discovered here, far more than at any other site in Europe. Many of these, as well as tools and weapons, are now on display in the Prehistoric Museum in Valencia and MUSEU ARQUEOLÒGIC Gandia. Guided visits to the cave can be arranged, and these start with a video in the Information Centre followed by…

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Monastery of Sant Jeroni de Cotalba

The monastery of Sant Jeroni de Cotalba is one of the most historic monastic constructions in Valencia and located near Alfauir, a village about eight kilometres outside Gandia. The Monastery of Sant Jeroni de Cotalba, located near Alfauir in the province of Valencia, Spain, is a remarkable historical site that reflects centuries of religious, cultural, and architectural development. Founded in the 14th century, this monastery has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, the transformation of religious practices, and the enduring influence of the Jerónimos order in Spain. Foundation and Early History The origins of the Monastery of Sant Jeroni de Cotalba date back to 1374 when it was founded by Alfonso of Aragon, the Duke of Gandia. The monastery was established as a religious house for the Jerónimos, a Catholic monastic order known for their dedication to prayer, study, and manual labor. The site chosen for the monastery was strategically located in the fertile lands of the Safor region, providing the monks with the necessary resources to sustain their contemplative lifestyle. The initial construction of the monastery was modest, but it quickly grew in both size and importance. The Jerónimos were well-connected to the royal family and the nobility,…

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Ducal Palace Gandia, a visit with guests

Palau Ducal Gandia - Gandia Borja Palace

There are many reasons to visit Gandia at any time of the year, but many visitors do not know that Gandia has its very own stately home, the Ducal Palace Gandia. And well worth a visit it is too, with most people saying what a great surprise it is. Situated close to the end of the “passeo” and looking out directly over the river Serpis, it was constructed in the 14th century and became effectively the summer palace of the infamous Borja family, who had their origins in the nearby inland town of Xativa. After the well known and often shady misdemeanors of his predecessors (think Cesar, Lucrezia, and the two popes the family produced, amongst others!) Francis Borja was born here in 1510. He went on to found the Jesuit College in the town and oversaw the so-called Golden Age of Gandia with its economic prosperity and was later canonised St Francis Borja. In anticipation of the celebrations in 2010 to mark the 500th anniversary of his birth, the palace was the subject of much restoration work and it is now a most impressive site to visit. With only a modest street frontage, it would be easy to pass…

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