Campanar
Campanar, a well-preserved town filled with nostalgia, has a rich history and various theories surrounding its name. One theory suggests that the name “Campanar” may have originated from the word “camp” in Valencian, referring to a field. In the past, residents would use the phrase “Anar Al Camp” or “Camp Anar” to indicate that they come from the field, giving rise to the term “Campero/a” to describe the inhabitants. However, during the time of the Llibre del Repartiment (the record book of property promises during the Valencian conquest), the neighborhood of Bellor was known as “bell” or “bellfry,” and not as “camp” or “field,” despite no recorded presence of a bell or bell tower. If there were a bell tower, the residents would have been called “campanero/a” (ringer) rather than “campero/a” (from the camp). It is worth noting that the first bell tower in Campanar was reportedly erected after February 19, 1596, to commemorate the appearance of the Virgin, according to numerous stories.
The origins of the Campanar district can be traced back to a collection of scattered Islamic farmhouses that were granted to Gaspar de Palangas or Despallargues by Jaume I after the reconquest of Valencia in 1242. Over time, a small town emerged between the Ditches of Rascaña and Mestalla. In the 17th century, the manor of Bellar became part of the Real patrimony under the civil jurisdiction of the city of Valencia, transforming it into one of its neighborhoods or suburbs. While the population of the neighborhood grew slowly until the 19th century, the influx of settlers during that century and the resulting neighborhood pressure led to the establishment of the suburb as an independent municipality. On November 7, 1837, the Provincial Council of Valencia approved the constitution of its city council. However, in 1897, the old municipality, with a population of 2,150 inhabitants, was permanently annexed to the city of Valencia. Presently, the district is divided into four neighborhoods: Campanar, Les Tendetes, El Calvari, and Sant Pau.
Benefits:
- Well-preserved town with a nostalgic atmosphere, offering a glimpse into the past.
- Rich history and cultural heritage.
- Scenic location between the Ditches of Rascaña and Mestalla.
- Charming neighborhoods with a mix of architectural styles.
- Proximity to the city of Valencia and its amenities.
Drawbacks:
- Loss of independent municipality status and integration into the city of Valencia.
- Potential urbanization and development pressures.
- Limited availability of land for expansion.
