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Valencian Community
Favara is a municipality located in the Valencian Community, within the province of Valencia. Known for its agricultural heritage, it features a mix of mountainous and flat terrain, contributing to its diverse landscape and economy.
Favara is situated in the Ribera Baja comarca, approximately 50 km from Valencia. The municipality is traversed by major roads, including the Autopista del Mediterráneo (AP-7) and the A-38 highway. Its varied terrain includes a mountainous region to the west, part of the Sierra de Corbera, and a flat area to the north, which is part of the Júcar delta's coastal plain.
The name Favara is believed to derive from the Arabic 'fawwara', meaning 'the fountain', reflecting the area's numerous underground water sources. The settlement's history is linked to the conquest of Valencia, with significant developments occurring post-13th century, including the establishment of the parish in 1568 and subsequent repopulation efforts after the expulsion of the Moriscos.
Favara is a municipality in Valencia known for its agriculture and rich history, featuring diverse landscapes and cultural festivities.
Favara's economy is traditionally based on agriculture, with key crops including oranges, vegetables, and rice. The agricultural practices have shaped the community's lifestyle and economic stability over the years.
Favara is home to several notable sites, including the Church of San Antonio Abad and archaeological sites like the Cueva de la Galera. The municipality celebrates various festivals, particularly in August, which highlight its cultural traditions.
The Plaça de la Vera Creu, established in 1950, features a unique ornamental fountain made of stone and marble. It consists of a circular basin topped by a square body adorned with fantastic motifs, culminating in a balustrade column with a lantern. The design harmoniously combines geometric elements, creating a visually appealing centerpiece in the plaza.
The name Favara is believed to derive from the Arabic word 'fawwara', meaning 'the fountain' or 'the fang', due to the many underground water sources in the area. Some suggest it may also relate to the Hawwara Berber tribes that inhabited the region in the 8th century. Historical documents about Favara emerged after the conquest of Valencia by Jaime I.
Favara's economy is primarily based on agriculture, with key crops including oranges, vegetables, and rice. These irrigated crops have historically been the backbone of the local economy, contributing to the town's growth and stability over the years.
The parish church in Favara, dedicated to San Antonio Abad, was constructed in 1760. Funded by Miquel Escrivá and Faus, it underwent renovations in the 1730s and 1740s, adopting a Renaissance style. The church remains a significant historical and cultural landmark in the town.
Favara hosts several festivals, with the patronal festivities occurring from August 8 to 14. Notable events include the San Cristóbal festival for truck drivers, San Lorenzo, and the Vera Cruz festival, which is the town's main celebration on August 14. Other celebrations include San Francisco and San Antonio throughout the year.
Yes, Favara is surrounded by diverse geography, including mountainous areas to the west, part of the Sierra de Corbera, and flat plains to the north, part of the Júcar delta. These areas feature Mediterranean vegetation and provide opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration.
The Cueva de la Galera is an archaeological site located in the Sierra del Cavall Bernat, known for its challenging access. It contains materials from the Bronze Age and Iberian period, including flint fragments and handmade pottery, which are currently housed in the Museo Municipal de Alcira.
Favara's population has fluctuated significantly. It was repopulated in 1611 after the expulsion of the Moriscos, and by 1860, it had 447 residents. The population grew steadily through the 20th century, reaching 1,679 in 1960, but has stabilized around 2,776 in recent years due to various social and economic factors.
The Ermita de San Lorenzo is a small, rectangular chapel located on a hill, characterized by its simple stone and masonry construction. It features a two-pitched roof and a modest facade, reflecting the austere architectural style typical of the region's religious structures.
The Plaza del Caballo is notable for its unique fountain, which features a circular base adorned with four winged horses and lion heads. This decorative fountain serves as a striking visual element in the plaza, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and artistic design.
Own text, written with AI assistance from the facts in Wikipedia · Favara, Spain · Data: Wikidata Q1826684 · Photos: Wikimedia Commons, see individual licenses. · CC BY-SA 4.0
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