Category: Cullera

The history of Cullera is a long, storied one with four distinct historical periods.

Prehistoric Period

Cullera is an ancient settlement dating back as far as the prehistoric times (the period between the invention of stone tools and prior to the invention of writing systems). The first signs of human settlement can be found in caves around the Faro Volcano. On the opposite slope of the mountain the Abric Lambert cave painting – named after Lambert Oliver who discovered them – which depict several human and animal figures can be found. These paintings date back to the earliest human settlements in Cullera.

Roman Rule

Ruins dating back from the Roman occupation of Spain can be found in the Barrio de La Rápita, the neigbhourhood near and surrounding our hotel. A fish salting factory dating back to the period can be found on Agustín Olivert street, and demonstrates the importance of Cullera’s port during Roman rule.  An ongoing mystery in the history of the Roman occupation of Spain is the location of the Roman city of Sucro. Referred to several times in Roman texts as well as the site of a major Roman mutiny, the city and its port remain unknown. However, a growing body of evidence including recent archaeological discoveries are making a strong case that Cullera is the lost city of Sucro and Port of Sucro (Portum Sucrone).

Moorish Rule

Qulayra as it was renamed during the Islamic period developed into a proper urban settlement under Muslim rule. The Moors built the Castle of Cullera and shifted the center of gravity in Cullera from around the Faro Volcano to an area south of the castle, the area that comprises modern day Cullera. A wall was also erected during this period to protect the town. This turned Cullera from a small port into a strategic location from which to control all commercial traffic on the river Júcar.

The Reconquest

After Cullera’s reconquest by Spanish forces the Barrio de la Vila was created. This neighbourhood grew rapidly during the 14th and 15th centuries. Cullera began suffering raids by Berber pirates during this period and as a response a chain of towers were erected, like the Torre de Marenyet, to protect the town.