Known as ‘Día de la Comunidad Valenciana’, this regional 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 passed from Christian to Moorish control from the 8th century to the 13th century.
In the spring of 1238, King James I of Aragon laid siege to Valencia and after five months, the Moors finally surrendered on 28 September. On 9 October, 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 region.
The Valencian region gained full autonomy within Spain in 1982.
On Valencian Community Day, many businesses and other organisations are closed. Most stores are closed, although some bakers and smaller food stores may open.
And on the 12th October another Fiesta Day This time national rather than regional.
