Artisan Cheese Villages in Valencian Community
29 villages
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106 - 34,712 inhabitants
·
History 74/100
Artisan Cheese Villages in Valencian Community: key facts
- 29 villages total
- Villena (34,712 inh.)
- Requena (20,982 inh.)
- Utiel (11,663 inh.)
- Altitude range: 45 – 1,125 m
The Valencian Community is home to 29 municipalities where artisan cheese production is a deeply rooted tradition. These villages, with an average population of 3612, are scattered across the region, from the coastal plains to the mountainous interior, with altitudes ranging from 45m to 1125m. This rich diversity of landscapes and climates contributes to the unique character of the cheeses produced in each area. The cheese-making heritage is often intertwined with other local culinary specialities and historical landmarks, offering visitors a multifaceted experience. For instance, a trip to Villena (population 34712), in the Alt Vinalopó comarca, allows one to explore El Tesoro de Villena, the second most important prehistoric gold find in Europe, while also savouring local gazpacho manchego and wines from the DO Alicante. Similarly, Requena (population 20982), in the Plana de Utiel-Requena, offers the chance to explore Las Cuevas de la Villa, a medieval subterranean labyrinth, alongside the region's celebrated artisan sausages and Bobal wine from the DO Utiel-Requena.