Gandia is called the "northern pearl" of the Costa Blanca. It is a famous historical and cultural center, a port city, and a popular seaside resort of Valencia. It is divided into two parts: the city and the beach - Playa de Gandia. A circular bus runs between the beach and the city. Gandia is located on the banks of the Serpis River. The distance to the provincial capital is 69 km; to Valencia Airport - 75 km. From the north, the city is protected from the winds by the La Safor mountain range. The center of Gandia is cozy, with lots of greenery, and several pedestrian zones have been created. There are various shops, souvenir shops, and three markets.
The shopping area is centered around Calle Mayor. In the central part of the city there is an underground railway station and a bus station.
Beaches
The main beach of the city is Gandia Playa, an endless strip of golden sand. There is a gentle entrance to the sea, clean water. The beach is perfectly equipped: lifeguards are constantly on duty, there are playgrounds, umbrellas and sun loungers, showers. There are no bananas or scooters in the sea - swimming is comfortable, most vacationers are families with children. The beautiful Paseo Maritim Neptu promenade stretches along the beach.
Attractions
The historic center of Gandia has preserved a significant part of the heritage of the Middle Ages. The Borgia family left behind a magnificent family residence. The Doge's Palace (Palacio Ducal) or the Borgia Palace (Palau dels Borja) has existed since the 14th century, and now it houses a museum. Its inconspicuous facade contrasts with the luxury of the interior; the architecture combines elements of secular Gothic, Renaissance, and Valencian Baroque. Two churches are also considered the heritage of the family, which left a bright mark on Italian history: the church of St. Anna (Iglesia de Santa Anna) and the Convent of St. Clara (Convent de Santa Clara). In the square of Escuela Pías in front of the building of the Old University (Real Colegio Escuelas Pías), a sculptural group depicting the Borgia family is installed. The Town Hall (Ayuntamiento de Gandía) (1778) is built in the neoclassical style.
The monastery church of Santa Maria (Col-legiata de Santa Maria de Gandia), founded in the 14th century, is considered an example of Catalan-Aragonese Gothic.
The Hospital of Sant Marc (Hospital de Sant Marc) was also founded in the 14th century. It continued its activities until 1973, now it houses the archaeological museum (Museu Arqueologic De Gandía).
Events, holidays and activities
The city holds its main holiday in early October. Gandia honors Saint Francisco - the fourth Duke of Borgia, beatified and canonized. Medieval performances are held in the historic center. In March, Fallas is celebrated; in April, Holy Week takes place. Visitors to Gandia can join any of the traditional fiestas with folk music and processions, with papier-mâché figures, fireworks, and colorful flags all year round. The Marquis González de Quiros Cultural Center hosts exhibitions, concerts, events, and the Polisònic summer festival. Gandia's discos and clubs are known far beyond the city's borders: famous DJs, showmen, and world stars come here.
