Mapa de la Comunidad Valenciana: Descubre España
The Comunitat Valenciana, also known as the Valencian Community, is an autonomous region located on the east coast of Spain. It is the third most populated region in the country, with a population of over 5 million people. The community is bordered by the regions of Catalonia to the north, Aragon to the west, and the Mediterranean Sea to the east. It is divided into three provinces: Alicante, Castellón, and Valencia.
History and Culture
The history of the Valencian Community is rich and diverse, with influences from various civilizations that have passed through the region. It was inhabited by the Iberians, Romans, Visigoths, and Moors before it was finally reconquered by the Christians in the 13th century. This diverse history has left its mark on the culture, language, and architecture of the region.
The official languages of the Valencian Community are Spanish and Valencian, a Romance language with Catalan influences. The community is also known for its traditional festivals, such as the Fallas de Valencia, a UNESCO-recognized festival held in March, and the Moors and Christians parades in Alcoy and Elche.
Economy and Tourism
The economy of the Valencian Community is diverse, with key sectors including agriculture, industry, and tourism. The region is famous for its citrus fruits, rice, and wine, and it is also a major producer of footwear and textiles. Tourism is a significant part of the economy, with the region attracting millions of visitors each year to its beaches, historic sites, and cultural attractions.
Some of the top tourist destinations in the Valencian Community include the city of Valencia, with its City of Arts and Sciences, a cultural and architectural complex designed by Santiago Calatrava; the coastal towns of Benidorm and Alicante; and the historic city of Elche, known for its palm trees and Misteri d'Elx, a UNESCO-recognized religious drama.
Geography and Climate
The Valencian Community has a varied landscape, with mountains, plains, and coastline. The region is home to several natural parks, including the Penyagolosa Natural Park in Castellón and the Sierra Gelada Natural Park in Alicante. The climate is typically Mediterranean, with mild winters and hot, dry summers.
The community is also home to several rivers, including the Turia, which runs through the city of Valencia, and the Segura, which flows through the province of Alicante. These rivers support a diverse range of wildlife and provide important water sources for the region.
Transportation and Infrastructure
The Valencian Community is well-connected by a network of highways, railways, and airports. The region is served by several international airports, including Valencia Airport, Alicante-Elche Airport, and Castellón-Costa Azahar Airport. The high-speed AVE train connects the region to the rest of Spain, and there is also an extensive network of buses and trams.
The community is also home to several ports, including the Port of Valencia, one of the busiest ports in Europe, and the Port of Alicante, which is a major hub for cruise ships.
Table: Main Airports in the Valencian Community
| Airport | Location | Passengers (2019) |
|---|---|---|
| Valencia Airport | Manises | 7,277,545 |
| Alicante-Elche Airport | Elche | 14,251,979 |
| Castellón-Costa Azahar Airport | Castellón de la Plana | 423,110 |