Nucli antic de la Vila de Sagunt

Nucli antic de la Vila de Sagunt, or the Núcleo antiguo de la Villa de Sagunto as it is known in its native tongue, is a captivating historical quarter nestled in the vibrant municipality of Sagunto, located in the province of Valencia, Spain. This ancient core of the city is a treasure trove of architectural marvels, cultural heritage, and historical significance, making it a must-visit for any traveler seeking to delve into the rich tapestry of Spanish history and culture.

The Historical Tapestry of Nucli antic de la Vila de Sagunt

The origins of Nucli antic de la Vila de Sagunt date back to ancient times, with its historical significance spanning various epochs and civilizations. The area is a designated Bien de Interés Cultural, a status that underscores its importance as a cultural and historical landmark. As you wander through its narrow, winding streets, you are transported back in time, with each corner revealing a new chapter of its storied past.

Architectural Gems and Monuments

The historical quarter is home to a plethora of monuments that reflect the diverse architectural styles and historical periods that have shaped Sagunto. One of the standout structures is the Ermita de la Magdalena, a charming hermitage that owes its existence to a revered image once kept by a hermit in the nearby castle. This hermitage has been a part of the landscape since the late 19th century, offering a serene and contemplative space for visitors.

Another architectural marvel is the Ermita de la Sangre, the largest hermitage in Sagunto, built in the early 17th century. This Baroque-style structure features a Latin cross plan, a single nave, and a barrel vault adorned with fresco paintings. The intricately painted lunettes add to the hermitage's artistic allure, making it a must-see for art and history enthusiasts.

The Jewish Quarter and Medieval Streets

Nucli antic de la Vila de Sagunt also boasts a fascinating Jewish quarter, located in the Barrio de la Sangre Vieja. This area was once home to the ancient synagogue and served as the residence for the Jewish community that arrived with Jaime I in the 13th century. The original entrance gate, known as the Portalet de la Jueria or Portalet de la Sangre, still stands, featuring a distinctive semicircular arch that offers a glimpse into the past.

As you explore further, you'll come across the Almudín Nuevo, a structure built in 1699, though only the semicircular entrance arch remains today. Close by is the Atzucat de la Palmera, a quintessential example of a Muslim alleyway, adding to the area's multicultural heritage.

Historical Buildings and Religious Sites

The ancient Casa del Mestre Penya, with its Gothic architecture, is another notable landmark. Despite its name, it likely served as a municipal market or butcher's shop rather than a noble house. Today, it houses the Sagunto Archaeological Museum, where visitors can delve into the rich archaeological heritage of the region.

The Iglesia de Santa María, located next to the Plaça dels Tarongers (Plaza of the Oranges), is another significant site. Built on the site of the former Great Mosque, this church has been the principal church of Sagunto since the Reconquista. Its historical and religious significance makes it a key attraction in the old quarter.

Ermitas and Palaces

The Ermita de San Roque y Virgen de los Desamparados, founded in the 17th century, stands as a testament to the local community's gratitude for what they believed was a miraculous intervention by Saint Roque during the plague epidemic of 1647-1648. The Ermita de la Virgen de los Dolores, built in 1860, is another religious site worth visiting, with its simple yet elegant façade and small bell tower.

The Palau del Delme, or the Palace of the Tithe, is a historical building donated by Jaime the Conqueror to the Bishop of Valencia in 1256. Initially, it housed Arab baths on the lower floor, though today only the façade with its ashlar masonry walls remains.

The Heart of the Medieval City

The medieval heart of Sagunto is defined by its three main streets: Cavallers (Knights), Castell (Castle), and Major (Main), all converging at the Plaza Mayor. This rectangular Gothic square, with its porticoes and repurposed Roman columns, served as the city's main square for centuries, hosting public events and administrative functions. The Almudín, a public grain store, once stood here, its entrance adorned with the old royal coat of arms.

Nucli antic de la Vila de Sagunt is more than just a historical quarter; it is a living museum that narrates the rich and diverse history of Sagunto. From its ancient streets and religious sites to its medieval squares and architectural wonders, every corner of this old town offers a new story, a new discovery. A visit to this historical gem is a journey through time, offering a profound appreciation for the cultural and historical heritage of Sagunto.