Requena

Requena is a municipality in eastern Spain, in the province of Valencia within the Valencian Community. It is the capital of the Utiel-Requena comarca and lies inland, on the edge of the region’s wine country. The town features a well-preserved historic center with medieval and early modern architecture and sits amid a landscape of vineyards and rural settlements. The climate is Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters.

History and development: The area has ancient roots with evidence of Iberian and Roman presence. Requena developed as a walled medieval town around a fortress, growing as an agricultural and artisanal center in the Middle Ages. In later centuries, viticulture and regional trade helped shape its economy and culture.

Economy: Modern Requena is strongly associated with wine production. It lies within the Utiel-Requena Denominación de Origen, one of Spain’s oldest wine regions, and hosts numerous wineries, tours, and wine-related activities. Agriculture and service sectors also contribute to the local economy.

Culture and sites: The historic quarter features narrow streets, churches, and remnants of defensive walls. The surrounding countryside is dominated by vineyards and traditional rural architecture. Cultural institutions include a regional wine museum and sites linked to viticultural heritage, alongside local festivals and markets that reflect the area’s traditions.

Transport and connectivity: Requena is accessible by road and rail from Valencia and other regional centers, making it a hub for tourism within the wine country and a base for exploring the broader comarca.