A true hidden gem, in the heart of real Spain...
Xativa, Valencia Province
Xàtiva (Spanish: Játiva) is a historic and characterful town in eastern Spain, located in the province of Valencia on the western bank of the River Albaida. It lies at the junction of the Valencia, Murcia and Valencia, Albacete railways, serving as the capital of the La Costera comarca in the northern Central Comarcas region. Xàtiva holds the distinction of having the highest number of enclaves in Spain, a remarkable twenty-six, and is just 25 kilometres west of the Mediterranean coast.
Conveniently positioned, the town is only 45 minutes from Valencia Airport and about one hour from Alicante Airport, making it an easy and scenic destination to reach. It’s also ideally located 30 to 45 minutes from three fabulous Mediterranean beaches, offering the perfect balance between coastal and countryside living.
Surrounded by lush green hills, orange groves, and natural beauty, Xàtiva is framed by a landscape of rivers, springs, and gentle mountains. The nearby towns and villages, such as Anna, Enguera, and Bocairent, are full of charm and make for delightful day trips.
After the Reconquista and Christian repopulation, Xàtiva became the cradle of the powerful and controversial Borgia family, who gave the world two Popes — Callixtus III (Alfonso de Borgia) and Alexander VI (Rodrigo de Borgia).
Historically, Xàtiva was one of the most important towns in the Kingdom of Valencia, rivaling both Valencia and Orihuela during the foral period. Though much of it was destroyed by Bourbon troops during the War of the Spanish Succession in 1707, it still preserves a rich artistic and cultural heritage.
In 1822, it briefly served as the capital of the Province of Xàtiva before being dissolved in 1833. Later, in the late 1970s, it was even considered as a potential capital of the Valencian Community thanks to its historical and geographical significance — a neutral option between Alicante and Valencia.
Today, Xàtiva is home to around 30,000 residents (2024) and, together with its nearby municipalities, forms part of an integrated urban area of roughly 61,000 people. Blending culture, history, and natural beauty, it’s a town that perfectly captures the authentic heart of Spain.