Angela Chantry will present a fascinating look at the history of the town we live in and the events which have shaped the modern day town.

Jávea has a long and diverse history that dates back to prehistoric times. The first settlers were the Iberians, who left behind some archaeological remains such as the Montgó cave and the Poble Nou de Benitatxell. The Romans also occupied Jávea and established a port and a fish-salting factory.

The Moors ruled the Iberian Peninsula for nearly 8 centuries and their legacy is of great importance. The influence of the Moors’ culture reached out far beyond Spanish borders, with the mighty cities of Sevilla, Córdoba, Granada and Cádiz being recognised throughout Europe and North Africa as centres of great learning, renowned for magnificent art and architecture, such as the Alhambra and the Mezquita, and the Mudéjar Towers in Teruel.

The Moors referred to Xàbia / Jávea  as “the valley of Ben-i-Hazim”, or Xabiga.  By the 11th century, the village was referred to as Xabea. In 1300 James II offered “splendorous Xabea” to his wife as a Christmas gift!

To defend themselves, the people of Jávea built walls and towers around the old town and the port. The most notable example of this is the 14th Century church of San Bartololemé which has a Gothic style and a defensive character.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, Jávea experienced an economic boom thanks to the cultivation and export of raisins. Many wealthy merchants built elegant houses and mansions in the town. However, this prosperity declined in the 20th century due to competition from other countries and the phylloxera plague that affected the vineyards. In the second half of the 20th century, Jávea reinvented itself as a tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over Europe and beyond. The town developed its infrastructure and services, while preserving its natural beauty and cultural identity.

To register, please email Ally O’Brien on history@u3ajavea.com.