Gandía boasts a rich history that stretches back to Roman times, but its most significant historical periods were during the Moorish and Christian eras. After the Moors conquered the region in the 8th century, the city became an important center of trade and agriculture. Later, after the Christian reconquest in the 13th century, Gandía became a thriving cultural and economic hub under the Kingdom of Aragon.
One of Gandía’s most famous historical figures is the Borgia family, who were influential during the Renaissance. The family’s presence is still felt in the city, particularly through landmarks like the Ducal Palace of Gandía, which was the residence of the Borgia dukes and remains a key cultural attraction today.
Culturally, Gandía is known for its vibrant festivals, including the Fallas festival, which is celebrated with fireworks, parades, and elaborate sculptures made of papier-mâché that are set ablaze at the end of the event. The city also celebrates its Fira i Festes in October, a festival dating back to 1310, filled with local traditions, music, and dancing. These events reflect the city’s strong sense of community and its dedication to preserving its cultural heritage.