Desert de les Palmes Natural Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Desierto de Las PalmasDesert de les Palmes |
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Map of the Desert of the Palms Park
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| Location |  Valencian Community,  Spain |
| Nearest city | Benicàssim |
| Area | 3293 hectares |
| Established | October 16, 1989 |
| Governing body |  |
The Desert de les Palmes Nature Reserve (also known as Parque Natural del Desierto de Las Palmas in Spanish and Desert de les Palmes in Valencian) is a special place in the province of Castellón, Valencian Community, Spain. It is a protected area where nature is kept safe.
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About the Desert de les Palmes Nature Reserve
This amazing nature reserve covers a large area of 3,293 hectares. That's about 8,137 acres! The government of Valencia officially made it a nature preserve on October 16, 1989.
Sadly, parts of the area were damaged by fires in 1985 and 1992. Because of these fires, there isn't much old, wild forest left. However, the area is still very important for its unique plants and history.
Why is it called "Desert de les Palmes"?
The name of the preserve has two interesting parts. The first part, "Desert," comes from a long time ago. A group of religious people called Carmelita Mendicants lived here. They used to call places set aside for quiet thinking and spiritual retreat "holy deserts." So, "desert" here means a peaceful, quiet place, not a sandy one.
The second part of the name, "Palmes" (which means "palms"), comes from the many palm trees found in the area. These are a special type of palm called Chamaerops humilis. This palm is the only kind of palm tree that naturally grows in Europe. It's quite unique!
Towns Near the Reserve
The Desert de les Palmes Nature Reserve is close to several towns. These towns are:
Image gallery
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Ancient monastery (in ruins).
