Valencia Community Day 09/10/2019

Tomorrow is the Valencian Community Day, being our office closed until Thursday.

History of Valencia Community Day

Known as ‘Día de la Comunidad Valenciana’, this holiday commemorates the capture of the city of Valencia from Moorish forces in 1238 by King James I of Aragon

Founded as Valencia by the Romans, the city has passed from Christian to Moorish control from the 8th century to the 13th century.

In 1238, King James I of Aragon laid siege to Valencia and after five months, the Moors finally surrendered on September 28th. On October 9th, James took possession of the city.

Whilst many people from different religions were allowed to stay, Fifty thousand Moors were forced to leave. After the Christian victory, the city was divided between the forces who had participated in the conquest.

James granted the city new charters of law (known as the Furs of Valencia). The changes brought by James redefined the city and the region in many ways, forming the basis of the character and key traditions of the Valencian regions.

On Valencian Community Day, most businesses and other organisations are closed. Most stores are closed, although some bakers and smaller food stores may open. Public transport services may run on a Sunday or reduced schedule. The parades and other public events that form part of the celebrations may cause local disruption to traffic, especially in the centres of towns and villages.