Benimaclet
Benimaclet, originally mentioned in the “Llibre de Repartiment,” was a Muslim farmhouse that was donated to the Gimeno brothers and García Pérez de Pina during the 13th-century conquest by James I. The toponym Benimaclet is derived from the Arabic “بني مخلد” (banī Maḫlad), meaning “children of Majlad,” with the Arabic prefix “Beni” typically translated as “children of.”
In 1409, Benimaclet became a manor consisting of six blocks belonging to the chapter of the Cathedral of Valencia. As an agricultural center, it developed as a crossroads, with one road leading to the sea (now known as Calle Murta) and another providing connections to other towns and the city of Valencia (now known as Calle Barón de San Petrillo). Historical cartography reveals that in the early 19th century, the center of Benimaclet consisted of a small group of houses, with the number of blocks remaining relatively unchanged since the 15th century.
The cadastral plan of 1933 showed an expansion towards the north and southeast, as well as the emergence of a new settlement to the south, while maintaining the area’s agricultural characteristics.
The physical incorporation of Benimaclet into the city of Valencia resulted in an urban enclave that retained much of its identity amidst buildings characterized by congestion, density, and indifference. In 1972, after integrating into the city, it became a district, separating into the two current neighborhoods: Benimaclet and Camí de Vera. The district is currently bordered by the municipality of Alboraya to the north, Algirós to the east, El Pla del Real to the south, and Rascaña and La Zaidía to the west. Remnants from the 19th century, such as signs indicating “Pueblo de Benimaclet” (The town of Benimaclet), can still be seen today. From 1764 to 1882, Benimaclet had its own independent local council, including its own mayor, until it became part of the city of Valencia. The last vestiges of local sovereignty ended in 1972.
Benefits:
- Agricultural Heritage: Benimaclet’s origins as an agricultural center contribute to its rich heritage and connection to the land, offering a glimpse into the region’s rural past.
- Unique Identity: Despite urbanization, Benimaclet has managed to retain elements of its distinct identity, with remnants of its historical architecture and signs marking its former status as a town.
- Convenient Location: Situated within Valencia, Benimaclet enjoys the advantages of being part of a vibrant city, with access to amenities, services, and cultural offerings.
- Connectivity: The district’s location provides convenient transportation links to other parts of Valencia, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike.
- Community Atmosphere: Benimaclet has fostered a strong sense of community, with local initiatives, events, and a friendly neighborhood atmosphere that enhances the quality of life for its residents.
Drawbacks:
- Urban Congestion: As part of a densely populated city, Benimaclet experiences urban congestion, with increased traffic, limited parking spaces, and higher noise levels.
- Loss of Green Spaces: Urbanization has led to the conversion of agricultural land into built-up areas, resulting in a decrease in green spaces and natural landscapes within Benimaclet.
- Increased Cost of Living: Living in an urban district like Benimaclet often comes with a higher cost of living, including housing prices, utility expenses, and general living expenses.
- Limited Space for Expansion: Being surrounded by other districts and neighborhoods restricts the potential for significant expansion within Benimaclet, which may limit the development of new infrastructure or amenities.
- Balancing Tradition and Modernization: Preserving Benimaclet’s historical and cultural heritage while adapting to modern urban needs poses a challenge, requiring careful planning and management.
