Xàtiva

A historic town dominated by its twin castle perched on a ridge above the rooftops. Rich in Roman, Moorish, and Christian heritage, it offers stunning views and a charming old quarter.

Things to do

• Castell de Xàtiva — Explore the twin castle complex, Castell Menor and Castell Major, linked by a walled ridge with sweeping views over the Costera plain.
• Museu de l'Almodí — Visit this Renaissance former grain exchange housing archaeological finds and the famous inverted portrait of Felipe V.
• Colegiata Basílica de Santa Maria — See the grand collegiate church, known locally as La Seu, with its Gothic and Baroque elements in the old quarter.
• Wander the Barri de l'Aljama — Stroll the old Jewish and Moorish quarter's narrow lanes beneath the castle for a sense of the town's layered past.
• Font del Lleó — Stop by this iconic lion-fountain landmark that has been a meeting point in the town center for centuries.
• Hospital Reial de Xàtiva — Admire the Gothic facade of the Royal Hospital, one of the town's most striking medieval buildings.
• Ruta dels Ponts — Walk along the old bridges and irrigation channels of the Albuera area for a quieter, greener side of Xàtiva.
• Day trip to Cova Negra — Head just outside town to this significant prehistoric archaeological cave site set in a scenic gorge.

Food to try

• Arròs amb fesols i naps — A hearty winter rice dish cooked with beans and turnips, a signature comfort food of the Costera region.
• Cassola de Xàtiva — A traditional stew of local vegetables, pork, and rice simmered together in a clay pot.
• Coca amb tonyina — A flatbread topped with tuna, tomato, and onion, popular as a snack or light lunch in local bakeries.
• Panolles and turrón-style sweets — Sample local pastry shops for traditional almond and honey sweets tied to Valencian confectionery traditions.
• Orxata amb fartons — Cool off with the classic Valencian tigernut drink paired with sweet elongated pastries, found in local cafés.
• Local Costera olive oil and wine — Try regional extra virgin olive oil and DO Valencia wines often featured in Xàtiva's traditional restaurants.

Local customs & good to know

• Visit early or late for the castle — Arrive in the morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat while climbing the steep path to the castle.
• Respect Fira d'Agost traditions — If visiting in August, expect the town's major annual fair with processions, markets, and local festivities.
• Wear sturdy shoes — The old quarter and castle paths involve cobblestones and steep inclines, so comfortable footwear is essential.
• Siesta hours affect shops — Many small shops and some sights close for a few hours in the early afternoon, typical of Spanish small-town rhythms.