Brief History of the 9th of October
The 9th October 1238 marks a decisive moment in the history of Valencia. On this date, King James I of Aragon victoriously entered the city after conquering it from the Muslims, putting an end to more than five centuries of Islamic rule. This event not only signified the incorporation of Valencia into the Crown of Aragon, but also the birth of the Kingdom of Valencia as an independent political and territorial entity within the Crown.
After the surrender of the Muslim forces, James I began a process of political and economic reorganisation in the new kingdom, granting privileges that guaranteed Valencia a privileged status with its own rights and autonomy in its governance. This conquest not only consolidated Christian rule in the region, but also laid the foundations of the Valencian cultural and political identity that is celebrated on 9 October.
Traditions and Customs of the 9th of October
One of the most iconic elements of the 9th October festivities is the Senyera, the official flag of the Valencian Community. This symbol, which represents Valencian pride and identity, has a prominent place in the celebrations. During the civic parade, the Senyera is carried in procession from Valencia City Hall to the Parterre, where an emotional floral offering is made to the statue of Jaime I. The peculiarity of the Senyera is that, according to tradition, it should never bow to anyone, which is why it is carried vertically in official ceremonies.
The civic parade is one of the most solemn ceremonies of the day, with the participation of authorities, cultural groups and local associations, who walk through the main streets of Valencia in an atmosphere of respect and admiration for Valencian history and culture. This event culminates with the aforementioned floral offering, an act of homage to King James I for having liberated Valencia, in which flowers are laid at the foot of his monument.
Throughout the day, these traditions combine the civic and the festive, uniting the community in celebration of its past and its identity, and allowing everyone, residents and visitors alike, to participate in the values and pride of the Valencian Community.
One Response
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Astept sa viu cat de repede!!