Bunol is a picturesque municipality located in the Valencian Community, known for its rich history and its dynamic culture. Among its main attractions is the Buñol Castlean imposing medieval fortress that rises above the landscape and offers spectacular views of the city. Its natural surroundings, with nearby rivers and mountains, make 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 known worldwide for its particular festival of The Tomatowhere thousands of participants throw tomatoes at each other in a celebration that has evolved over the years. This festival, 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 50,000 years, with deposits which reflect various cultures, from prehistoric times to Roman times. However, the current city was founded in the Islamic era, in the 10th and 11th centuries, when the first castle was built.
With the Christian conquest in the 13th century, 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 of the Valencian Community, although recent economic crises have motivated a shift towards new sectors, such as food and cultural tourism.
Places of interest
He Buñol CastleAn impressive medieval fortress from the 11th century, is the city’s main attraction. This well-preserved structure was remodeled in the 14th century, after the Christian conquest. The castle comprises two different areas, separated by a moat: the military area with the Place d’Armes and the residential area, 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 swimming.
For hiking enthusiasts, the Buñol Water Route It is an attractive option that crosses natural landscapes, including the impressive Cueva Turche, with its 60-metre waterfall and crystal-clear pools, as well as the Cueva de las Palomas and Charco Mañán, perfect for relaxing.
Tomato Festival
The Tomato It is a world-famous festival 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 tomato fight after an incident with a gigantic doll. Since then, the tradition has grown and evolved.
The tomatoes used in Tomatina are selected for their ripeness and come from the Valencian Community. They are not products fit for consumption, but rather those that have not been harvested, which minimizes the environmental impactEvery year, trucks loaded with tomatoes arrive at the square, ready to be launched until the second shot marks the end of the battle.
The organization establishes certain rules to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all, such as crush the tomatoes before throwing them away. Furthermore, the party is not just for adults; there is a children’s version that allows the little ones to participate in their own “mini-battle”, thus enhancing the legacy of this celebration.
History
La Tomatina de Buñol, famous for its colorful tomato fightThere are various legends about its origin. One of them suggests that it all started in 1945, when a group of young people threw tomatoes at a singer they considered fake during a parade. However, another version attributes its impetus to “El Deivi”, a character from Tarazona, who proposed to reproduce the tomato festival after enjoying the festivities of Buñol.
Since its inception, Tomatina has faced various bans, but the locals persevered, organizing the “Burial of the Tomatoes” in 1957 as a protest. Over time, the festival was allowed 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, capacity has been limited to ensure the safety and comfort of participants, by implementing a ticketing system.
