Valencian Community

Autonomous community of western Spain, comprising the provinces of Alicante, Castellón de la Plana, and Valencia; area 23,305 sq km/8,998 sq mi; population (2001 est) 4,202,600. The region is chiefly mountainous, with a rich agricultural area on the coastal plain, producing citrus and other fruits, vegetables, rice, olive oil, and wine. Valencia is called the ‘garden of Spain’ for its intensive cultivation under irrigation that was started by the Moors. Industries include iron and steel production and car manufacture, while manufacturing includes processed foods, ceramics, furniture, textiles, and metal products. Tourism, especially to seaside resorts has become increasingly important. The capital is Valencia.

Inhabited by Iberians in early times, Valencia was later colonized by Greek and Carthaginian traders; it was a battlefield between the Carthaginians and Romans. It passed to the Moors in the 8th century, and became an independent emirate in 1022. Valencia was taken from the Moors at the end of the 11th century by El Cid, who held it briefly (1094–99) and died in its defence. It was incorporated with Aragón in 1238, and remained a kingdom in name until the 18th century. The region experienced an economic revival in the 20th century.