World Tourism Day in Gandia
A Celebration of Heritage, Culture, and Community
Introduction: The Significance of World Tourism Day
World Tourism Day, celebrated globally on September 27th each year, is an event designed to foster awareness of tourism’s social, cultural, political, and economic value. Established by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in 1980, it aims to highlight the transformative power of tourism in fostering international understanding, peace, and sustainable development. Each year, the celebration revolves around a theme that emphasizes the global and local impacts of tourism, with 2024’s theme being “Tourism and Peace.”
Tourism serves as a bridge between cultures, creating connections that transcend borders and allowing communities to share their heritage, traditions, and landscapes with the world. With the rise of sustainable tourism and eco-conscious travel, the focus has increasingly shifted to promoting responsible travel that benefits both the environment and the local populations. Towns and cities around the world mark this day with events and activities designed to showcase their unique attractions while encouraging a deeper understanding of the cultures they represent. Gandia, a town rich in history and culture, is no exception to this global celebration.
Gandia’s World Tourism Day Celebration: Showcasing Heritage and Nature
In 2024, Gandia embraced World Tourism Day with a variety of activities held between September 24 and 27. The event, organized by the Tourism Department and led by Vicent Mascarell, highlighted the historical and cultural richness of the town through free guided tours, a photographic route, and a special raffle offering two nights in a local hotel paired with a gastronomic experience. These activities were crafted to engage both locals and visitors, promoting Gandia’s heritage and natural beauty while encouraging sustainable tourism practices.
Guided Tours of Gandia’s Historical Monuments
One of the primary highlights of Gandia’s World Tourism Day celebration was the series of free guided tours, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to explore some of the town’s most iconic landmarks. These tours provided insights into the town’s deep historical roots, featuring significant monuments such as the Ducal Palace, the Castell de Bairén, and the Cova del Parpalló. For instance, the Palau Ducal, once the residence of the Dukes of Gandia, including the infamous Borgia family, stands as a testament to the town’s aristocratic past.
The tours offered on various days of the celebration catered to a diverse audience, with some even including sign language interpreters to ensure inclusivity. Highlights of the guided tours included:
- Cova del Parpalló: Known for its archaeological significance, this site dates back to the Paleolithic period and has been a crucial location for understanding early human history in the region.
- Castell de Bairén: A medieval castle offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscapes, providing visitors with a glimpse into Gandia’s strategic importance throughout history.
- Morabit de Marxuquera: A hermitage located in the beautiful Marxuquera valley, ideal for visitors looking to connect with both nature and local history.
Additionally, a guided photographic route was offered, encouraging participants to capture the beauty of Gandia’s architectural and natural landmarks. This creative activity not only celebrated the town’s visual appeal but also fostered an appreciation for the delicate balance between heritage preservation and modern tourism.
The Gastronomic Raffle: Celebrating Local Cuisine
In keeping with Gandia’s focus on offering a holistic tourism experience, the World Tourism Day celebration included a gastronomic raffle, allowing one lucky winner to enjoy two nights in a local hotel paired with a culinary experience. This initiative underscored the importance of food as a vital part of the cultural tourism experience.
Gandia’s gastronomy reflects the rich Mediterranean diet, with fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional Valencian dishes such as fideuà—a local variant of paella that substitutes noodles for rice—taking center stage. The raffle emphasized how culinary tourism can be a gateway to understanding local traditions and supporting sustainable food practices.
Villa Florencia Casa Rural: A Local Celebration of Heritage
At Villa Florencia Casa Rural, we embraced the spirit of World Tourism Day by organizing a special excursion for our guests, focusing on Gandia’s religious and cultural heritage. On the morning of September 27th, we accompanied our current guests on a visit to the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria de Gandia, a Gothic-style church that has been central to the spiritual and cultural life of the town for centuries. This visit was part of our ongoing efforts to provide guests with immersive experiences that connect them to the local culture and history.
The Collegiate Church of Santa Maria de Gandia: A Historical Landmark
The Collegiate Church, located in the heart of Gandia’s historic district, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, with its intricate stone carvings and soaring arches. Founded in the 14th century, the church has witnessed many of the town’s historical milestones, including the rise of the powerful Borgia family, whose influence shaped much of Gandia’s cultural and architectural heritage.
Our guided tour of the church offered guests an in-depth look at its architectural features, including the majestic altarpiece and the richly decorated chapels that line its interior. Guests were particularly captivated by the historical anecdotes shared by our guide, detailing the church’s role during key moments in Gandia’s history, including its connection to the Borgia popes.
A Festive Afternoon: Celebrating Tradition and Community
This year, World Tourism Day coincided with the start of Gandia’s annual Fira i Festes celebrations, a vibrant and lively event that marks a significant moment in the town’s cultural calendar. After our insightful tour of the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria de Gandia, we and our guests had the opportunity to witness the spectacle of Tio de la Porra, a unique and boisterous parade that signals the beginning of the festivities.
The Tio de la Porra, with its unmistakable drumbeats and colorful procession, captivated our guests as we wandered through the streets of Gandia. The atmosphere was electric, filled with music, laughter, and the sights and sounds of local traditions on full display. As we moved through the heart of the town, we took time to soak up the celebratory energy, exploring the various stalls, street performers, and displays of Valencian culture that define this special time of year.
This celebration, tied to both the past and present of Gandia, provided a perfect complement to our World Tourism Day activities, emphasizing the importance of local traditions in shaping the town’s identity. Our guests were thrilled to be part of such a significant local event, and the day became not only a celebration of tourism and heritage but also an immersion into the very spirit of Gandia itself.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Tourism and Peace
World Tourism Day 2024 in Gandia was a resounding success, shining a spotlight on the town’s unique blend of history, culture, and nature. From the free guided tours to the gastronomic experiences and our own celebration at Villa Florencia Casa Rural, the event highlighted the importance of sustainable tourism as a means of fostering peace and understanding.
As we look forward to future celebrations, it is clear that tourism plays a vital role in bringing people together and preserving the world’s diverse cultural heritage. At Villa Florencia Casa Rural, we remain committed to offering our guests authentic experiences that honor Gandia’s rich history while promoting responsible travel practices that benefit both the local community and the environment. Whether through visits to historical landmarks like the Collegiate Church or through quiet moments in the stunning Valencian countryside, we strive to connect our guests to the heart of Gandia’s cultural and natural treasures.
