Valencia, Spain

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Valencia
Image:Flag of the Land of Valencia (2x3 ratio).svg Image:Escudo de Valencia 2.svg Flag Coat of Arms
Location
Image:Valencia, Spain - location.png
Coordinates : 39°29′0″N, 0°22′0″W Time zone : CET (GMT +1) - summer : CEST (GMT +2)
General information
Native name	València (Valencian)
Spanish name	Valencia
Founded	2nd century
Postal code	46000-46080
Website	www.valencia.es
Administration
Country	Spain
Autonomous Community	Valencia
Province	Valencia
Comarca	Huerta de Valencia
Administrative Divisions	16
Neighborhoods	70
Mayor	Rita Barberá Nolla (PP)
Geography
Land Area	134.65 km²
Altitude	15 m AMSL
Population
Population	818,941 (2007)
- rank in Spain:	3rd
Density	5,916 hab./km² (2006)

Valencia (Spanish: Valencia [ba'lenθja];^[1] Valencian: València [va'ɫɛnsia]) is the administrative capital of the Spanish Autonomous Community of Valencia and of the Valencian Province.

Valencia, a city of cultural and commercial prestige, is situated halfway down the Eastern coast of Spain. Considered to be one of the principal cities of the Mediterranean, it is the third most important city in Spain. Its population is 818,941 inhabitants, or 1,800,000 if the population of the surrounding suburbs and towns is added. A modern communications network makes Valencia easily accessible, and links Valencia to other important Spanish and European cities through its port, motorway links, airport and railway network.

Contents 1 History of Valencia 1.1 Early History of Valencia 1.2 The Moors in Valencia 1.3 Christian History of Valencia 1.4 The Contemporary Valencia 2 Valencia Weather 2.1 Summer 2.2 Winters 3 Cityscape 3.1 City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias) 3.2 Valencia Cathedral 3.3 Museums 3.4 La Albufera 3.5 Torres de Serranos and Torres de Quart 3.6 Beaches 3.7 Botanical Gardens 4 Culture 4.1 Nightlife 4.2 Theatre and music 4.3 Valencia Shops 4.4 Local cuisine 4.5 Language 4.6 Festivals 5 Economy 5.1 The Valencian Industry 6 Transportation 6.1 By Train 6.2 By Metro 6.3 By bus 7 Twin Cities 8 External links

[edit] History of Valencia

Valencia's rather lengthy history doesn't cover just a few centuries; instead, it spans entire millennia. Roman warriors set down roots along the River Turia.

Today, with its fascinating past, Valencia is a forward-looking city that both celebrates the bygone times and boldly leads Spain into the awaiting future. The ultra-modern City of Arts and Sciences is one illustration of this progress.

[edit] Early History of Valencia

Valencia's history reaches back to 138 BC when the Iberian peninsula was a part of the massive Roman Empire. Following the Second Punic War, Roman legionaries settled down and built a city on the banks of the River Turia that they named "Valentia."

Known for their mastery of design and flawless architecture, the Romans set up and developed the region's first irrigation system: a series of canals and dams that the Moors would advance further. The Plaza de la Almoina is an example of the extensive Roman archaeological ruins that can be discovered or explored.

With the collapse of the Roman Empire, the Visigoths moved in and played a major role in national affairs for over two centuries. As the end of the Visigoth reign neared, the society was plagued with internal conflicts, epidemics, and other crises that undermined the Visigoths' political and social unity. The Moors, seeking the opportunity for a take-over, took advantage of the chaos with little, if any, opposition.

[edit] The Moors in Valencia

Arriving in 711 A.D. and subsequently taking control of practically the entire Iberian peninsula, the Moors made Valencia an agricultural and industrial center, a role it would continue to play after the Christian reconquest. Under Islamic rule, ceramics, glasswork, paper, silk and leather industries became major, thriving commercial enterprises, and the network of irrigation canals that the Romans had first installed was extended and refined.

The Moors ruled Valencia unopposed until the brief six-year interruption resulting from the triumphant rampage of Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, more commonly known as the El Cid. He descended upon the city, took control, turned nine mosques into churches, and installed a bishop before he died in 1099. His wife, Doña Ximena, maintained control for two years following El Cid's death, but would eventually handed the power to the Moors in 1101. They would maintain control for another 150 years.

[edit] Christian History of Valencia

The year 1238 saw the definitive victory of the Christians, as Jaime I of Aragón, enlisting the help of Spanish, French, German, and Italian forces, wrested Valencia out of the grip of the Moors and incorporated it into his own kingdom. He immediately kick-started a new system of urbanization, as churches and Christian architecture quickly replaced Moorish mosques and buildings.

While the 14th century saw its share of epidemics and political problems as the new Christian city of Valencia tried to find its footing, Valencia found itself in its golden age. Lasting from the 15th until the 16th centuries, Valencia became one of the Mediterranean's strongest trading centers as well as an economic and cultural nucelus of Spain. Architects, painters, sculptors and writers provided the city with flourishing artistic activity. Spain's first printed book can be seen in the library of the Antigua Universidad.

The 17th century was not a positive epoch throughout Spain, and in Valencia the reality was equally harsh. The 1609 expulsion of the Moriscos (Moors that had converted to Christianity) saw the loss of Valencia's populace of artisans and agriculturists. The crisis continued to worsen as political corruption and economic strife wracked the city.

Following the death of Spain's heirless king Carlos II, the War of Spanish Succession broke out across the country and proved to be a crippling defeat for Valencia. Valencia supported Carlos of Austria. As revenge, the victorious Felipe V abolished the autonomous privileges (called "fueros") that Valencia had enjoyed. Meanwhile, in cities like Salamanca, which had supported him, he constructed grand plazas and buildings as a sign of gratitude.

The 18th century started off on a bad note for Valencia, but then was marked by post-crisis, post-war recuperation. Valencia expanded its port and its industries, and advances in agricultural techniques led to a thriving export of fruits, wine, and rice. Plus new means of transportation linked Valencia to other major cities throughout Spain, and its industries and economy steadily grew.

The War of Spanish Independence, lasting from 1808 until 1814, was the result of Napoleon Bonaparte's ambitions in Europe. His troops invaded Valencia in 1808, but the city held them off until the very end, when French troops took over the city from 1812 through 1814. Today, you can still see cannonball pockmarks spread across El Carmen's Torres de Quart, reminders that attest to the invading troops' intensity.

[edit] The Contemporary Valencia

The 20th century started off well, but the good luck would run dry with the Spanish Civil War, which lasted from 1936 until 1939. Valencia had sided with the Republicans, who had moved their government headquarters to Valencia after future dictator Francisco Franco's Nationalist forces took Madrid.

Unfortunately, they once again sided with the losing team and would pay for it for decades to come. To worsen matters, in 1957 Valencia fell victim to severe flooding of the River Turia, which sent up to two meters of water rushing through the streets and damaging much of the city. The river was re-routed and now passes around the southern and western Valencian suburbs. The riverbed is now a seven-kilometer park leading to the brand-new City of Arts and Sciences.

Following Franco's death after an oppressive 35-year reign, Valencia enjoys a high degree of autonomy and is a prospering hub of commerce, industry and tourism.

[edit] Valencia Weather

Valencia boasts a great amount of sunshine, particularly between June and September, while the winters are mild. July and August have the highest temperatures, averaging at about 25°C, yet hovering in the mid-30°Cs in the daytime. July and August are also the most humid months of the year, although those staying on the beaches have the benefit of the Mediterranean breeze. July and August are also the busiest months.

[edit] Summer

June and September are perhaps the best times to visit, where there are fewer crowds, but the temperature is still hot. Rainfall is fairly even year-round, apart from May and October, when it is particularly rainy in Valencia. Average winter temperatures remain above 10°C, but expect freezing temperatures in the mountains behind Valencia at this time of year and bring warm clothing.

[edit] Winters

Winters in Valencia are mild affairs and rainfall is relatively infrequent, with only occasional showers between the months of November and March. Summers are warm but by no means excessively hot and showers are very occasional.

Considering these climatic characteristics of the town, it’s safe to say that Marbella can be visited at any time of the year and which season you go in depends very much on your holiday agenda and expectations. While hardly suitable for sunbathing, wintertime in Valencia is an ideal place to escape the cold temperatures of many European countries. In contrast, summers make for great beach holidays and would present few occasions for wearing anything other than shorts and a t-shirt.

Weather averages for Valencia
Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Average high °C (°F)	16 (61)	17 (63)	19 (66)	20 (68)	23 (73)	27 (81)	29 (84)	30 (86)	28 (82)	24 (75)	19 (66)	17 (63)
Average low °C (°F)	8 (46)	8 (46)		12 (54)	15 (59)	19 (66)	22 (72)	22 (72)	20 (68)	16 (61)	11 (52)
Precipitation mm (inch)	2.74 (0.1)	2.28 (0.1)	2.09 (0.1)	2.25 (0.1)	2.64 (0.1)	1.43 (0.1)	0.44 (0)	0.72 (0)	3.71 (0.1)	4.01 (0.2)	3.14 (0.1)	4.22 (0.2)
Source: MSN Weather[2] December 30, 2007

[edit] Cityscape

The best sites to visit are located near La Almoina and La Virgen Square which was the site of the old Roman Forum. The cathedral is unique because it encompasses the Baroque, Renaissance and Gothic architectural styles. It has an eight sided bell tower and should you climb to the top of the tower you will be rewarded with some spectacular views. There is a museum here and one of the most famous items it is supposed to be home to is the Holy Grail, the cup used by Christ at the Last Supper.

The city hall is located in a huge 18th century building that is also home to two museums. Jardines del Real is a large splendid garden where visitors can picnic and stroll around the rose and sculpture gardens. Perhaps the most frequented places are the beautiful beaches of Valencia. The Playa de la Mavarrose is the city’s main beach but there are several other beaches including the L’Ahuir Beach, Rafalcaid Beach, Miramar Beach, the beaches at Sagunto and Cullera and many other beaches. There are several museums to visit at Valencia including the Valencia Institute of Modern Art, the Museo de Bellas Artes which exhibits art by Velazques, El-Greco and the Cathedral Diocesan Museum which has 15th century paintings and several magnificent sculptures.

[edit] City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias)

Principally designed by local architect turned international sensation Santiago Calatrava, the magnificent buildings- Palacio de las Artes Reina Sofía, L'Umbracle, L'Oceanògraifc, L'Hemisfèric, Museo de Ciencias Príncipe Felipe- of the City of Arts and Sciences are enough to attract hoards of picture-snapping tourists. The giant, futuristic structures rise dramatically out of a crystalline infinity pool and hold the various facets of an ultra-modern cultural and scientific complex- the first of its kind in Spain. The City of Arts and Sciences was thought up as an effort to boost tourism to Valencia- outside of Las Fallas time, that is! Today, it's the second most visited attraction in Spain, beat out only by Madrid's art museum, El Prado.

L'Umbracle, a 7000 square meter green zone covering the complex's car park, is likely to be the first stop on your whirlwind tour of the City of Arts and Sciences. L'Umbracle is a paradisaical celebration of Valencia's stunning array of local flora, through which runs a landscaped walk shaped by series of fixed and floating arches. Providing shade, color and quite the delightful smell are large and small palm trees, orange tres, climbing plants, hanging vines, thousands of aromatic flowers and a vast array of blooming plants- trust us, it's a sight to see. Plus, it's the only part of the City of Arts and Sciences that's absolutely and positively free!

With its reflection in the sprawling pool completing its shape, looking at L'Hemisfèric will make you feel like someone is watching you. Shaped like a giant eye, the structure is both architecturally stunning and acutely representative of what lies within. L'Hemisfèric asks you to open your eyes and set them upon its huge, concave screen for a variety of IMAX films, laser shows and planetarium displays.

You're sure to have a swimmingly good time exploring the various installations that comprise L'Oceanogràfic, Europe's biggest aquarium. Featuring a wide range of structures and exhibits divided amongst eight main sections, get up close and personal with belugas, walruses, tropical fish, sharks, sea lions and penguins- and that's just to name a few! L'Oceanogràfic also features a submerged restaurant and two underwater tunnels, one of which is 70 meters long! With sharks and fish swimming all around you, there's no better way to get a taste of life under the sea.

[edit] Valencia Cathedral

The 13th century Valencia Cathedral was supposedly the holder of the Holy Grail for 500 years - the cup used by Jesus at the Last Supper. A mock of the Holy Grail can be seen today in a side chapel. Built on the site of an old mosque, the cathedral displays a number of architectural forms through the ages including Romanesque and Baroque, although Gothic is very much king and best seen in the tower with its striking arches. The 155-foot high Gothic tower affords fantastic views over the city and sea, while the nearby Cathedral Museum (Museo de la Catedral) is also worth a look.

[edit] Museums

Valencia boasts several quality museums that display arts and artefacts from its illustrious past. The Fine Arts Museum (Museo de Bellas Artes) is one of Spain’s best, housing masterpieces by El Greco and Ribera as well as prominent artists from the Valencian impressionist school. The National Ceramic Museum (Museo Nacional de Cerámica) has ceramics from around the world including local Alcora and Paterna pieces, while the nearby Baroque Palacio del Marqués de Dos Aguas is also worth a look. The Museum of the Enlightenment (Museo Valenciano de la Ilustración y la Modernidad) is also high up on Valencia’s list of impressive museums and displays the past through numerous colourful images and dioramas, which can be seen on hour-long tours.

[edit] La Albufera

Nature lovers should make the effort to visit Valencia’s biggest and most prominent natural habitat, La Albufera nature reserve. The reserve lies to the south of the city, behind Playa del Saler, Valencia’s best beach. A series of dunes and pine groves protect the park from the Mediterranean waters and in the centre of the reserve is a large freshwater lake. Hundreds of bird species nest and breed here including flamingos and herons, and visitors can take boat trips on the lake.

[edit] Torres de Serranos and Torres de Quart

The 14th and 15th century Torres de Serranos and Torres de Quart are two impressive stone gates, which once provided entry into Valencia from the north and south, Barcelona and Madrid respectively. Today, they are all that remains of the original stone wall that protected the city and they bear physical wounds from the Napoleonic invasion of Valencia in the 19th century.

[edit] Beaches

Valencia has a number of quality beaches, some of which should perhaps be avoided if possible. They stretch to the north and south of the port of Valencia, with the beaches to the south generally having cleaner waters. The best beaches include: Malvarrosa Beach, a good quality northern beach with excellent water sports; Pineda Beach, a central/southern beach with access for the disabled; Saler Beach, Valencia’s best beach to the south and near to La Albufera Natural Park; and Devesa Beach, also near La Albufera Natural Park, yet more sedate than Saler.

[edit] Botanical Gardens

Valencia’s Botanical Gardens have been in their current location at Huerto de Tramoyeres for over 200 years, although some of the greenery is much older than this. The gardens were relocated in 1802 and have achieved a relative amount of exposure owing to the efforts of the University of Valencia. The gardens have amassed thousands of species from climates the world over and many are housed in traditional 19th century-style greenhouses.

[edit] Culture

Valencia is a vibrant city, mainly owing to the large student presence at the University of Valencia, but also owing to the many tourists that visit year-round in search of sun and nightlife. There are plenty of live music venues, bars and clubs to keep both students and tourists happy, and nightclubs stay open until the early hours.

[edit] Nightlife

As Spain's third largest city, Valencia's nightlife is on par with Madrid and Barcelona. A large and diverse student population yields an eclectic collection of bars and clubs, such as grungy rock bars, sophisticated cocktail lounges, laid-back cafés and frenetic discotecas.

Valencia doesn't have just one happening nightlife "zone." Clusters of crowded locales are dispersed throughout the various areas of the city, ranging from the historic inner city to the modern beach front. One notable area is El Carmen, especially around the Plaza San Jaime. Known as one of the liveliest zones in which to go out, it features diverse restaurants, cafés, and music bars.

Another option is the University area. The Avenidas (Avenues) Aragón and Blasco Ibáñez, and the web of streets brancing off of them, are brimming with bars and clubs of all types. Running along the Malvarrosa are stylish bars and clubs that welcome both tourists and locals looking for drinking, dancing and general diversion.

[edit] Theatre and music

For all of its fantastic cultural sights and awareness, Valencia is slightly lacking in cutting-edge performance arts, although a growing number theatres and art centres are cropping up, slowly bringing the city on a par with other Spanish cultural centres. The Palau de la Música and the Palau de les Arts in the City of Arts and Sciences are starting to attract more interest in the arts and feature some top performers. Despite the theatre scene being still in the early stages of development, the live music scene is extremely healthy in Valencia, with some big-name bands regularly playing in the city.

[edit] Valencia Shops

If you're on the prowl for some trip mementos or gifts for loved ones back at home, pass on the souvenir keychains and "Más Cerveza Por Favor" (More Beer Please) t-shirts and opt instead for local hand-made products. Valencia has garnered a well-deserved reputation for its age-old artisan traditions - lace, wicker work, fans, silk embroidery, ceramics, Lladró porcelain, etc. - so don't pass up the opportunity to peruse its wide range of specialty shops. In the streets surrounding the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, the Plaza de la Virgen and the Plaza del Patriarca, you'll run into scores of these artisan shops, all of which maintain a traditional Valencian air along with their top-quality handicrafts.

Shopping tip number two: chances are that, at some point during your Spain travels, you will notice that Spanish people generally look stylish and very put together- even when they're in casual mode! The Spanish affinity for up-to-date fashion trends is nourished by an unimaginable number of clothing and accessory stores of various sizes, styles and price ranges, and in Valencia there is certainly no shortage

The best zone for top-notch fashion shopping is on the street Calle Colón as well as the surrounding district (streets Sorní, Cirilo, Amorós, Jorge Juan...). Apart from major Spanish and European chains like Zara, Cortefiel and Massimo Dutti, seek out the mega-department store El Corte Inglés, where you can shop for anything from mayonnaise to designer footwear. Finally, for the one-stop, on-a-mission shopper, Valencia has various "centros comerciales," (shopping malls) in the city and along its periphery- check the list below! These shopping centers usually have well over one-hundred well-known Spanish and European stores, along with leisure zones, movie theaters, restaurants and more.

[edit] Local cuisine

Valencian gastronomy is varied, natural and traditional. The fruit and vegetables of this fertile land, fresh fish and abundant seafood provide the main ingredients of an exquisite Mediterranean cuisine. The most characteristic dishes are made with rice which is cooked in myriad of ways; the star of the show is the world famous Paella, though there are other traditional dishes like arroz al horno (oven-baked rice), arroz a banda (rice with fish), arroz negro (rice with black squid ink), la fideuá (made with noodles instead of rice) and all i pebre (a casseroled stew made with eels, garlic and pepper).

All of these should be enjoyed with a glass or two of white wine from Alto Turia and the Serranía, or red wine from Requena, Utiel, and the Campo de Liria. They are all wines of excellent quality with their own officially registered designation of origin. The dessert menu offers fresh fruit (Valencia produces wonderful oranges and citrus fruits) and an extensive array of pastries such as rosetones, arrop i tallaetes or arnadí (a sweet made from pumpkin, sweet potato and almonds), these are often accompanied by a mistela or muscatel liqueur. During the Las Fallas festivals buñuelos (a kind of doughnut) are very popular and must be sampled. In the summer months, horchata (a milky drink made from tiger nuts) and fartons (pastry sticks sprinkled with icing sugar), will delight and refresh the weary traveller. Finally, we must mention the 'Agua de Valencia' (Valencian water!!), a potent combination of fresh orange juice and cava; just perfect for raising a glass in honour of your visit to the city.

[edit] Language

There are two official languages in Valencia: "Valenciano," used in the Valencian Community, and Spanish, Spain's official language.

The Royal Academy of Valencian Culture an organization in Valencia, Spain, promotes the Valencian language and culture through courses and events. The Valencian language also spoken in France, Andorra and Italy.

[edit] Festivals

Like elsewhere in Spain, Valencia is a magnet for festivals and events, with something for everyone, from traditional parades and processions to explosive firework displays. A taste of some of Valencia’s best known summer festivals and events include:

• Bienal is a biennial festival of the arts featuring well known artists and art exhibitions at major venues across the city. The festival also features a range of theatre and dance performances (June).
• Feria de Julio (July Fair) is a collection of parades and bullfights which characterise Valencia's summer. The bullfights are staged at the Plaça de los Bous, while the Battle of the Flowers is held at Passeig de l'Albereda (July).
• La Tomatina is perhaps Valencia’s most interesting and fun event. La Tomatina is a street battle involving Valencians and tourists alike, who hurl tomatoes at each other at the Buñol. Revellers from all over the world take part in the extravaganza (late August).
• FIB (Festival Internacional de Benicàssim) is an outdoor music festival featuring big-name bands from around the world.

[edit] Economy

Valencia is one of Spain’s largest cities, and a major centre of economy and industry. Its port, El Grao, is one of the busiest on the Mediterranean coast. The main exports from the city are food and drink (mainly wine, oranges, lemons and rice), furniture, ceramic tiles, fans, textiles and iron products. The city is an important centre for the marketing of agricultural and horticultural produce, especially fruit, most of it flowing into the city from the surrounding region. Valencia itself is a manufacturing centre that focuses on metallurgy, chemicals, textiles, shipbuilding and brewing.

The Valencian Community is located at the East of the Iberian Peninsula within the Mediterranean arch; it has an extension that compared to the national area, represents the 4.60%. The three provinces that form the Valencian Community (Castellón de la Plana at the North, Valencia and Alicante at the South) represent the aforementioned percentage and are situated along the coast.

[edit] The Valencian Industry

In the Valencian industrial net, some big companies share the market with a great quantity of small and middle-sized businesses belonging to those known as traditional sectors, supporting an intensive labour force. The influence of these main businesses in the industrial development, has been indirect according to a training and demand of skilled labour force and to a major requirement of the quality of the providers. Besides it is necessary to mention that this community has always been a good area for entrepreneurs, which has motivated a strong presence of small and middle-sized businesses in the managerial structure. The region presents relevant importance of the small and middle-sized businesses in the industrial structure. At the beginning of the 90s, almost 97% of the companies had less than 50 employees, but adding the number of companies with 50 to 100 employees the percentage rises up to 99%.

The sector that holds the biggest number of companies is the food and agriculture sector, followed in number by Wood-Furniture sector. On the contrary the Ceramic and Toy sector are the ones holding a lower number of companies. In relation to the employment the Metal-Mechanic sector is the one holding the biggest number of employment, followed by far by the rest of the sectors with the exception of the Toy sector, which compared to the rest of the sectors has a low level of employment. In relation to percentages of the Spanish production, it is necessary to mention that the Ceramic and Toy sectors are the ones holding the highest percentages.

The port of Valencia, which handles 20% of Spain’s exports, is the country’s biggest port for container traffic. Extensive renovations have been completed and ambitious expansion projects are under way. From mid the Eighties, with the entrance of Spain in the European Community, the flow of immigrants has experienced a remarkable and progressive growth. In those same dates a qualitative change in the type of immigration begins to take place, sending the European presence and increasing coming from Africa and Latin America.

[edit] Transportation

Main article: Valencia Metro (Spain)

The airport at Valencia handles both national and international flights. Several airlines including British Airways, Air Europa, Ryanair, Iberia Air, Air France, Spainair and many others land at Valencia’s international airport. From the airport, passengers can get to the city, which is about 8 miles away, by taxi, bus or subway. Passengers may also opt to hire a car from the airport and drive to the city themselves. Valencia is on the N220, A3 and N 335 motorways which are connected to Madrid, Barcelona and other Spanish cities. It is possible to drive from Europe to Valencia and then connect to these motorways that will lead you into Valencia. Eurolines is the most commonly used coach service that commutes between several major European cities. Rail Europe stops at many cities in Spain including Valencia. The train departs from major cities in Europe and the services are reliable and fast, however you do need to make a train change at the border due to rail gauge differences. Daily ferries commute between Ibizia and Mallorca to Valencia. There are also several other ferry services from many Spanish ports to Valencia.

[edit] By Train

Valencia train station is situated in the centre of the city and has direct connection to principle Spanish and European cities. From the train station there are bus, tube (100 meters) and taxi. The RENFE has completed a network of cercanias that facilitates the peripheral routes. Euromed that the RENFE in the passage between Alicante serves and Barcelona with such trains AVE which they make the Madrid-Seville passage, turns a pleasure which until recently represented a punishment for the passengers of the coast of the Mediterranean. In addition, the trip from Madrid is made in comfortable trains, the Alaris, that reach in some sections the 200 kilometers per hour and have reduced to the passage to pains three hours and average. The line of high speed (AVE) that in few years must unite to the three Valencian capitals with Madrid and, of step, with the European network of these characteristics. Essential infrastructure for the economic development and the tourism of the Spanish Mediterranean.

[edit] By Metro

By Metro Metro trains and buses are interconnected, although the Metro is mainly aimed at commuters, with services running to the outer suburbs of Valencia. Trains run every 20 minutes from Estación del Norte and hourly at weekends. Line 4 is particularly useful for tourists; this is a high-speed, above-ground tram that runs between the city and Las Arenas, the port and the beach at Malvarrosa. A metro of recent construction and modern tranvia (first installed in contemporary Spain) not only resolve the social necessities of transport, if not also the demand of the visitors whom they love to be transferred comfortably in his turisticas routes.

[edit] By bus

EMT buses (MetroBus) run to destinations around the town as well as to outlying towns and villages. Buses do a loop to and from the bus station (Avenida Menéndez Pidal) from early morning to late at night, while night services continue until 01:00; buses depart every 10 minutes. Bus number 5 takes in many of Valencia’s top points of interest on its regular route and is a cheaper alternative to the tour buses. Bus number 8 is also particularly useful, with regular departures from Plaza del Ayuntamiento to Avenida Menéndez Pidal bus station. Bus maps are available from the EMT office at Calle Correo, Viejo 5.

[edit] Twin Cities

The first twinning of the city of Valencia was in 1976 with the Italian city of Bologna, today the city of Valencia has twinning with several other cities in the world such as

• Image:Flag of Germany.svg Mainz, Germany
• Image:Flag of Italy.svg Bologna, Italy
• Image:Flag of Mexico.svg Veracruz, Mexico
• Image:Flag of the United States.svg Sacramento, California, USA
• Image:Flag of Venezuela.svg Valencia, Venezuela
• Image:Flag of Ukraine.svg Odessa, Ukraine
• Image:Flag of Colombia.svg Manizales, Colombia

[edit] External links

• City Hall official website (Spanish) (English) (Catalan) (French)
• Valencia City Guide official website (English)
• Valencia Port official website (Spanish) (English)
• City of Arts and Sciences official website(Spanish) (Catalan) (English)
• Valencia Tourism official website (Spanish) (English) (German) (French) (Italian) (Japanese) (Chinese)

v • d • e Comarques of the Valencian Community

Alacantí · Alcoià · Alcalatén · Alt Maestrat · Alto Mijares · Alto Palancia · Alt Vinalopó · Baix Maestrat · Baix Vinalopó · Camp de Morvedre · Camp de Túria · Canal de Navarrés · Comtat · Costera · Horta Nord · Horta Oest · Horta Sud · Hoya de Buñol · Marina Alta · Marina Baixa · Ports · Plana Alta · Plana Baixa · Requena-Utiel · Rincón de Ademuz · Ribera Alta · Ribera Baixa · Safor · Los Serranos · València · Vall d'Albaida · Valle de Cofrentes · Vega Baja del Segura · Vinalopó Mitjà

v • d • e Image:Flag of Spain.svg List of the Spanish Costas
Costa Brava · Costa Daurada · Costa da Morte · Costa del Azahar · Costa Blanca · Costa Cálida · Costa de Almeria · Costa de Granada · Costa del Sol · Costa de la Luz · a Costa do Marisco · Costa Esmeralda · Costa Verde · Costa Vasca

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