Conjunto Histórico de Burriana

The Conjunto Histórico de Burriana, officially recognized as a Site of Cultural Interest, is a magnificent testament to the rich and diverse history of Burriana, a charming town in the Plana Baja region of Castellón, Spain. This historical ensemble offers a fascinating journey through time, from its origins as a Muslim settlement to its transformation into a bustling modern town, all while preserving its unique architectural heritage.

The Muslim Origins

Burriana's history as an urban center dates back to the 9th century when it was established as a Muslim settlement. The original layout of the town featured semicircular walls fortified with square towers, providing a robust defense system. Three main gates provided access to the town: the Portal de Tortosa facing the river, the Portal de Onda to the west, and the Portal de Valencia to the southeast. The narrow, winding streets typical of Arab towns are still visible today in areas such as San Pedro, San Juan, D. Vicente Torres, and Carlos I. Dead-end alleys, another characteristic of Arab urban design, have been transformed into small plazas like the Placetas del Tremedal and de Pujol.

The Christian Conquest

In 1233, Burriana was conquered by Christian forces, and the town was granted its charter on November 1 of the same year. Interestingly, the transition from an Arab to a Christian town did not bring immediate changes to the town's layout or buildings. It wasn't until the late Middle Ages that significant modifications began to occur, driven by the town's growth and development. The expansion led to the creation of new neighborhoods outside the original walls, such as the Raval del Mar. By the late 17th century, the town's structure started to change more rapidly, with the demolition of parts of the walls and gates, including the Portal de Valencia, and the filling in of the surrounding moat.

Urban Development and Modernization

The 18th century saw further urban improvements, including the paving of streets and the introduction of public lighting, which marked the beginning of Burriana's transformation into a more modern town. The medieval core of the town, known as La Vila, retained its traditional architecture, while new residential blocks with straight streets and regular layouts emerged in the expanding town. By 1843, Burriana was divided into four districts: La Vila and the neighborhoods of Valencia, Onda, and the Mar. The early 20th century brought further expansion and modernization, with the widening of streets and the creation of new plazas and open spaces.

Architectural Highlights

Within the Conjunto Histórico de Burriana, several notable monuments and buildings reflect the town's rich architectural heritage. The remains of the medieval walls and the Iglesia Parroquial del Salvador are among the most significant. The church, built in the 13th century, features a Romanesque floor plan transitioning to Gothic style. It was decorated in the Baroque style in the 18th century, and a Communion Chapel was added in the 19th century. The bell tower, originally Gothic from the 14th century, was reconstructed after the Spanish Civil War.

The Ex-convent of La Merced, dating from the 16th century, now houses the Municipal Cultural Center La Mercé and the Archaeological Museum of the Plana Baja. The museum's collection includes a sculpture of the god Hermes from the 1st century. Adjacent to the convent is the Church of La Merced, built in the 18th century. Other significant religious buildings include the Hospital Church of San Blas and the Temple of San José, built by the Discalced Carmelites in the 19th century.

Modernist Mansions and the Orange Museum

Burriana is also home to several grand houses from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many of which are excellent examples of modernist architecture. Notable among these are the Reig, Fandos, Font de Mora, El Tarrós, and Boix houses. One of these modernist houses now hosts the Museu de la Taronja (Orange Museum), which showcases the history of citrus cultivation in Spain and its significant impact on the economic development of Burriana and the surrounding region.

The Central Market

The Central Market of Burriana, designed in a style that blends rationalism with modernism, is another highlight of the Conjunto Histórico. It remains a vibrant hub of daily life in Burriana, where locals and visitors alike can experience the town's rich culinary traditions and lively atmosphere.

In conclusion, the Conjunto Histórico de Burriana offers a captivating glimpse into the town's diverse historical and architectural heritage. From its origins as a fortified Muslim settlement to its evolution into a modern town, Burriana's historical ensemble is a testament to the enduring legacy of its past and a vibrant part of its present. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, Burriana's historical center is sure to enchant and inspire.