10 facts about Castelló de la Plana you didn't know

Discover Castelló de la Plana: 10 Hidden Gems and Fascinating Facts You Never Knew About This City

Welcome to Castelló de la Plana, a city where history, culture, and the Mediterranean lifestyle blend into something truly special. Nestled in the sun-soaked region of Valencia, this place offers so much more than meets the eye. While you might know it as the capital of the Castellón province or for its stunning coastline, there are countless hidden gems and fascinating facts about Castelló de la Plana that most people have never heard of. Buckle up, because we’re about to take you on a journey through ten amazing, little-known facts about this vibrant city. Did you know, for instance, that Castelló had to literally uproot itself and move to its current location? Or that it boasts a bell tower that doubles as a symbol of the city? Let’s dive into the wonders of Castelló de la Plana!

1. Castelló de la Plana Was Relocated in 1251

What if we told you Castelló de la Plana wasn’t always here? Back in 1251, King James I of Aragon decided the old town nestled in the mountains wasn’t cutting it. He authorized its relocation to the fertile plains where the city stands today. This monumental move is celebrated every year during the Magdalena Festival, complete with a pilgrimage to the Hermitage of the Magdalena. Imagine packing up an entire town and starting fresh—it’s like medieval urban planning on steroids!

2. Home to One of Spain’s Most Unique Bell Towers

Meet El Fadrí, the octagonal bell tower that isn’t just a landmark but a beloved symbol of Castelló de la Plana. Standing 60 meters tall, this architectural gem was completed in 1604 and features a spiral staircase with over 200 steps. Climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside. Best part? It’s detached from the Santa María Cathedral, a feature that’s as rare as it is fascinating in Spanish architecture.

3. The Lonja del Cáñamo: A Renaissance Treasure

Castelló de la Plana is home to the Lonja del Cáñamo, a late Renaissance building constructed between 1606 and 1617. Originally a hemp trading market, this building now hosts exhibitions and cultural events on its ground floor while its upper floor remains a private space. Declared a Historic and Artistic Monument in 1984, the Lonja del Cáñamo is a testament to the city’s once-booming hemp industry.

4. The City’s Walls Were Torn Down—Then Rebuilt

In a tale of destruction and revival, Castelló’s medieval city walls were demolished in the 19th century to accommodate urban expansion. But during the Carlist Wars, they were rebuilt to defend against threats. Today, remnants of these walls, known as the Muralla Liberal, serve as a historical reminder of the city’s resilience and strategic importance.

5. A Festival That Lasts Nine Days

Castelló de la Plana doesn’t do celebrations halfway. The Magdalena Festival, held three weeks before Easter, spans nine days and honors the city’s historic relocation. Picture parades, music, fireworks, and a citywide pilgrimage. International bands and cultural groups join the festivities, making it a vibrant blend of local tradition and global flair. If you’re ever in Castelló in March, don’t miss this unforgettable experience!

6. A Railway Called “La Panderola” Once Connected the City

Talk about charming transport! Castelló once had a narrow-gauge railway affectionately nicknamed “La Panderola.” Operational from the late 19th to the mid-20th century, this tram linked the city to surrounding towns and villages. While it no longer exists, “La Panderola” remains a nostalgic symbol of Castelló’s industrial and urban growth.

Plaça de la Independència (Castelló de la Plana)

7. The Patron Saint Was Found by a Farmer

Legend has it that the image of the Virgen del Lledó, Castelló’s patron saint, was discovered in the 14th century by a farmer named Perot de Granyana while plowing his field. This miraculous find led to the construction of the Basílica de la Mare de Déu del Lledó, a beautiful church that still stands today. It’s one of the city’s most cherished religious sites.

8. Castelló’s Central Market Is a Feast for the Senses

Next to Santa María Cathedral lies the Central Market, a vibrant hub for local produce, seafood, and artisan goods. This bustling marketplace is not just a place to shop but a cultural experience. The adjacent Plaza Santa Clara, once home to a convent, frequently hosts exhibitions and fairs, making it a lively spot steeped in history.

9. The Teatro Principal Has an Italian Twist

Reopened in 1999 after a meticulous restoration, Castelló’s Teatro Principal is a masterpiece of neoclassical design with a distinctly Italian layout. The theater’s ceiling is adorned with stunning paintings, and its acoustics are top-notch. It’s the go-to venue for operas, plays, and concerts, blending artistic elegance with cultural significance.

10. The City’s Name Reflects Its Geography

Ever wondered what “Castelló de la Plana” means? It translates to “Castelló of the Plain,” a nod to its location on the flat plains of the Plana region. The name perfectly encapsulates the city’s identity—rooted in its fertile lands, surrounded by mountains, and kissed by the Mediterranean breeze. It’s geography meets poetry!

So there you have it—ten incredible facts about Castelló de la Plana you probably didn’t know. From its strategic relocation to its iconic bell tower and vibrant festivals, this city is a treasure trove of stories waiting to be uncovered. Next time you find yourself in Castelló, don’t just stick to the main attractions. Dig a little deeper, and you’ll find a city that’s as rich in history as it is in charm. Ready to explore?

Església de la Sagrada Família de Castelló de la Plana

Scavenger hunts in Castelló de la Plana

Discover Castelló de la Plana with the digital Scavenger Hunt from myCityQuest! Solve puzzles, master team tasks and explore Castelló de la Plana with your team!

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