Alzira
Alzira (its official and Valencian name; in Spanish: Alcira) is a town and municipality of 42,543 people (2005 estimate) in eastern Spain. Alzira is the capital of the comarca Ribera Alta in the province of Valencia and is located on the left bank of the Júcar river, and on the Valencia-Alicante railway
Alzira was founded by the Arabs with the name Al-Yazirat Suquar, or Júcar Island. During the Middle Ages, it was a prosperous Moorish trading-station. In 1242, James I of Aragon put control of the town in Spanish hands.
“Alzireños”, as folk from Alzira are called, are known for their happy, bubbly character. This is especially evidenced when they celebrate their secular and holy fiestas throughout the year especially during “Fallas” and Holy Week, which are the most outstanding fiestas.
Alzira historical background: The municipality of Alzira was already inhabited in prehistoric times, but its beginnings are still somewhat unclear. The town could be the successor of the Sucro-ibereans or it could have been the continuation of a Muslim settlement. During the Muslim era, Alzira became a very important town. It even had its very own local government. It was known throughout the region as a cultural hub for writers, philosophers, and law experts. Built on a natural island of the River Xúquer, it was completely surrounded by a high wall built by the Muslims. This offered complete protection against invaders all throughout the Middle Ages. Only two sections of the wall remain standing today: Arabia Saudí Park and at the Old Market place, together with the remains of a single tower. King Jaime I re-conquered the town for Christianity on the 30 th of December, 1242.
Alzira geographic situation: Alzira's climate is typically Mediterranean: warm with no extremes of temperature either in summer or winter. Rainfall is scarce and irregular. Torrential rains usually follow periods of relative drought.
The town is situated on the shores of the River Xúquer. The Murta and Casella valleys are well worth visiting as they are by far the most beautiful areas in the Alzira area.
The town borough extends over 111 square kilometres. The population count was 41.319 inhabitants in 2001.
Floods: The tragic “pantanada” (reservoir flood) on the 20 th of October 1982, flooded the whole of Alzira. The Tous dam wall broke up and its waters reached right up to the first floor in many buildings, flooding and destroying businesses, homes and acres of agricultural land. Alas, the waters again flooded Alzira five years later on the 4 th of November 1987, this time with less tragic results.
Alzira local economy: Agriculture was the prime economic driving force in Alzira up to the middle of the last century. The most important produce are oranges and they are distributed by important local co-operatives.
During the 20 th century, Alzira changed from an agricultural based economy to an industry-orientated city with an important commercial infrastructure and associated services.
Services in Alzira: As capital of the Ribera Alta region, it boasts numerous public services such as: Area Inland Revenue offices, Social Security, The Ribera Hospital, Public Health Centre, educational establishments, law courts etc.
Use full telephone numbers: Post office (Correos): 96 241 02 98; Hospital de la Ribera: 96 245 81 00; City council: 96 240 04 50; Police: 96 240 04 50.
How to get to Alzira: There are good road links to all main coastal towns such as Gandía, Cullera etc. Also, the A7 motorway and the Madrid-Albacete-Valencia motorway connect the town with the main cities of Spain and Europe. Alzira has had a railway station since 1853 and is on the main Valencia to Almansa line.
Use full telephone numbers: Airport Manises (Valencia): 963709500; RENFE train station: 962404105; Taxis: 96241097.
Alzira’s public parks and gardens: Alzira has many parks and gardens that are enjoyed both by locals and visitors. They are located in different areas of town. The Arabia Saudí Park is located in the La Vila district, popularly known as “de las murallas” (the rampart park). The main park though is “L'Alqenencia”. Over 52.000 square metres are given over to this area that has a varied vegetation, paths, pine trees and recreational areas for both adults and children. You can appreciate the whole park in its entirety if you walk up to its highest point. There are also other “green” areas in the town centre. Also worth visiting is La Casella with its fountains and deer reserve. The Murta valleys, which includes the ruins of a Jeronimo monastery. And Aigües Vives and the Muntanyeta del Salvador.
Information supplied by: Orange Blossom Homes S.L.
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