Algemesí facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Algemesí
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 Algemesí
Location in Spain
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| Country | Spain | |
| Autonomous community | Valencian Community | |
| Province | Valencia | |
| Comarca | Ribera Alta | |
| Judicial district | Alzira | |
| Area | ||
| • Total | 41.5 km2 (16.0 sq mi) | |
| Elevation | 17 m (56 ft) | |
| Population
(2018)
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| • Total | 27,285 | |
| • Density | 657.5/km2 (1,702.8/sq mi) | |
| Demonyms | Algemesinenc, algemesinenca | |
| Time zone | UTC+1 (CET) | |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC+2 (CEST) | |
| Postal code |
46680
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| Dialing code | (+34) 9624 | |
| Official language(s) | Valencian | |
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Algemesí (pronounced ahl-jeh-meh-ZEE) is a town in Spain. It's located in the Valencian Community, which is a region in eastern Spain. Algemesí is known for its rich culture and lively festivals.
This town is a big center for growing citrus fruits like oranges and lemons. This is because the weather is mild, and there's good water from the Xuquer river. Many fruit-growing businesses are based here.
Every September, Algemesí celebrates a special event called the Festivity of “la Mare de Déu de la Salut.” This festival is so important that UNESCO recognized it in 2011. It's considered an intangible cultural heritage, which means it's a living tradition passed down through generations. A famous traditional dance called Muixeranga is a big part of this festival.
Contents
Culture and Traditions
Algemesí has a vibrant culture, especially around its famous festivals.
Museum of the Parties
The Museum of the Parties of Algemesí is a special place. It's like a research center all about the town's celebrations. Here, you can find photos and information about the most important parts of the festivals.
Some of the traditions you can learn about at the museum include:
- "Los misterios y martirios" (the mysteries and martyrdoms)
- The "muixeranga" (a human tower dance)
- "Els bastonets" (a stick dance)
- "El ball de la carxofa i arquets" (the artichoke and arch dance)
- "Les pastoretes" (the shepherdesses dance)
- "El bolero" (a traditional dance)
- "Els tornejants" (a sword dance)
- "Els volants" (a flag dance)
- "La Mare de Deu de la Salut" (Our Lady of Health festival)
- The special music played during these events.
Musical Society
The Societat Musical d'Algemesí is the town's Musical Society. It plays an important role in keeping traditional music alive and performing for the community.
Exciting Events
La Mare de Déu de la Salut Festival
The La Mare de Déu de la Salut Festival is the most famous event in Algemesí. It happens every year on September 7th and 8th. This festival has many traditions that have been passed down since 1247!
The festival takes place in the historic parts of Algemesí. What makes it so special is how much everyone in town gets involved. People of all ages join in, forming groups to help with the traditions and rituals. Even though many things have changed over time, the community's spirit for this festival remains strong. Many of the dances and acts have waiting lists, and sometimes positions are even passed down in families!
Special Recognitions
This festival has received many important awards and recognitions:
- UNESCO has called it part of the "intangible heritage of humanity." This means it's a valuable living tradition for all of us.
- It's an Event of Intangible Cultural Interest by the Valencian government.
- It's listed in the Register of Assets of Cultural Interest by the Spanish Ministry of Culture.
- It's a Festivity of Touristic Interest recognized by the Spanish Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Commerce.
- It's known as a Spanish treasure of intangible cultural heritage.
- In 2009, it was named one of the 10 Treasures of Spain's Intangible Cultural Heritage.
- It's also one of the 7 Valencian marvels, specifically for its cultural events and heritage.
Traditional Bullring Week
Every year in late September, Algemesí hosts a special week. During this time, a unique wooden bullring is built in the town square. This bullring is made up of 29 sections called “cadafals.” Local groups, known as “peñas,” build their own sections using wood, nails, and ropes, just like people did in 1943.
This week includes traditional events where young bulls are moved from pens to the square. People gather in the square, and the "peñas" have their booths. In the evenings, there are more activities and entertainment in the bullring. It's a time for the community to come together and celebrate.
International Friends
Algemesí has special connections with other towns around the world. These are called "twin towns" or "sister cities."
Twin towns – Sister cities
Algemesí is connected with:
Riom, France
Gangneung, South Korea
See also
In Spanish: Algemesí para niños
