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On the left-hand bank of the Turia, now embraced by the metropolitan area of Valencia, Paterna has maintained and combined its customs with the constant changes that modern life imposes. Covered, largely, by agricultural land, the town enjoys the tranquillity and traditions of a simple life. In spite of changes to its urban landscape, progress has created large cultural and industrial spaces, which the city needed in order to show two harmonic, complemented yet differentiated faces.
Paterna allows visitors to enjoy both an urban nucleus riddled with captivating spaces and a natural environment with many places to visit. To organise a guided tour around the typical tourist attractions, the Tourist Council, in the municipal Tourist Office, offers its services. To organise a group visit it is necessary to get in touch with the tourist office by telephoning them on the number 963053124 or, by visiting them at the following address (Calle Médico Ballester n º 23).
At a distance from the urban nucleus one can find a place called the Calvary, which gives a panoramic view of the river, Paterna´s fields and nearby towns. Another interesting place to visit is El Naixement de la Font del Gerro, the source of the underground waters that supplied Paterna (found on Villa de Madrid street, where it intersects with Ontinyent street on the Fuente del Jarro Industrial estate), has recently been recovered for public enjoyment. Visits can be made on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 10 to 13'00 hours. Beside the town hall, several drinking fountains have also been installed.
Paterna´s culinary menu is characteristic of the Mediterranean region with fresh and natural ingredients. In this respect, elaborated dishes such as the Valencian Paella stand out, along with the fideuà and rice in the oven with raisins. However, the certified gastronomic jewel of the local cuisine is Cachaps, a puff-pastry desert adorned with a special cream whose recipe is guarded as an absolute secret. |
