Experiences

Tribunal de les Aigües-Water Court

Every Thursday, the farmers representing the eight irrigating communities of Valencia's plain meet next to the Cathedral to solve disputes over the use of water. Many curious and tourists observe them. Why? This is the oldest institution of justice that survives in Europe, created in Valencia during the Caliphate of Cordoba, by Al-Hakam II. In 2009 it was declared an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO.

+ (foto de Comunitat Valenciana)

Info & location

City/Province Valencia City

Type of experience:

Special visits
Culture and arts

Where

The Tribunal de Las Aguas meets outside the Door of the Apostles of Valencia's Cathedral, in the Plaza de la Virgen, Before, the main mosque of Balansiya, the Muslim Valencia, was here.

When

Every Thursday at noon. On public holidays that fall on a Thursday, the Water Court shall meet on the preceding Wednesday.

Ancient heritage

This form of justice was instituted around 960, by Al-Hakam II, and then perfected by the first Christian king of Valencia, Jaime I. Today the court continues to retain its democratic essence: every two years each irrigation community elects its representative . In their meetings they speak Valencian and wear the traditional black shirt of the irrigators.

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