Buñol is a picturesque municipality located in the Valencian Community, known for its rich history and its vibrant culture. Among its main attractions is the Buñol Castlean imposing medieval fortress that rises above the landscape and offers spectacular views of the town. Its natural environment, with nearby rivers and mountains, makes it an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy outdoor activities at any time of the year.
In addition to its historical heritage, Buñol is world famous for its peculiar festival of La Tomatinawhere thousands of participants throw tomatoes at each other in a celebration that has evolved over the years. This festival, along with its varied cuisine, which includes typical dishes such as rice and traditional sweets, attracts tourists from all over the world. The combination of history, culture and nature They make Buñol a fascinating place to visit.
Buñol, the most famous town in Valencia
The history of Buñol dates back to 50,000 years ago, with deposits that reflect diverse cultures, from Prehistory to Roman times. However, the current town was founded during the Islamic period, in the 10th and 11th centuries, when the first castle was built.
With the Christian conquest in the 13th century, the Hoya de Buñol regionwhich included towns such as Alborache and Macastre. Over the centuries, Buñol went from being a Lordship to a County. Industrialization began in the 18th century, focused on paper production, which fueled the labor movement. In the 20th century, the city consolidated itself as an industrial center in the Valencian Community, although recent economic crises have motivated a change towards new sectors, such as food and cultural tourism.
Places of interest
He Buñol Castlean impressive medieval fortress from the 11th century, stands as the main attraction of the town. This well-preserved structure was remodeled in the 14th century, after the Christian conquest. The castle has two different areas, separated by moats: the military area with the Plaza de Armas and the residential sector, which houses the Archaeological Museum and the Ethnological Museum.
He Galan Milla vestige of the paper industry, has been rehabilitated as a library and houses the Tomatina Museum, where the famous tomato festival is celebrated. This mill is a testament to Buñol’s industrial heritage and is located near the River Park, which has been revitalized and now includes natural pools ideal for bathing.
For hiking lovers, the Buñol Water Route It is an attractive option that runs through natural landscapes, including the impressive Cueva Turche, with its 60-meter waterfall and crystalline pools, as well as the Cueva de las Palomas and Charco Mañán, perfect for relaxing.
Tomatina Festival
La Tomatina It is a festival known throughout the world where participants throw tomatoes at each other, turning the streets into a sea of red pulp. This tradition began in 1945, when a group of young people, excited by a parade, decided to start a battle with tomatoes after an incident with a gigantic doll. Since that time, the tradition has grown and evolved.
The tomatoes used in Tomatina are selected for their ripeness, and come from the Valencian Community. These are not products suitable for consumption, but rather those that have not been harvested, which minimizes the environmental impact. Every year, trucks loaded with tomatoes arrive at the square, ready to be launched until the second shot rings out, marking the end of the battle.
The organization establishes some rules to ensure the safety and enjoyment of everyone, such as crush the tomatoes before throwing them. Furthermore, the party is not exclusive to adults; There is a children’s version that allows the little ones to participate in their own “mini battle”, thus promoting the legacy of this celebration.
History
La Tomatina de Buñol, famous for its colorful tomato battlehas various legends about its origin. One of them suggests that it began in 1945, when a group of young people threw tomatoes at a singer they considered out of tune during a parade. However, another version attributes its impetus to “El Deivi”, a character from Tarazona, who proposed replicating the tomato festival after enjoying the Buñol festivities.
Since its inception, Tomatina has faced various prohibitions, but locals persevered, organizing the “tomato burial” in 1957 as a form of protest. Over time, the festival was authorized again, incorporating new rules. In 1975, “Los Clavarios de San Luis Bertrán” took over the organization, and in 1983, a television report helped popularize it. In 2002, it was declared Festival of International Tourist Interestand since 2013, the capacity has been limited to guarantee the safety and comfort of the participants, establishing a ticket system.
