Valls

Valls is a town located in the province of Tarragona, in the autonomous community of Catalonia, Spain. It serves as the capital of the comarca of Alt Camp. Here is a detailed history of Valls, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Historical Overview

Medieval Era:

• Valls has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of settlements dating back to the Roman period. However, the town began to develop more prominently during the medieval era.
• In the 12th century, Valls was part of the County of Barcelona and later integrated into the Crown of Aragon. The town grew around its agricultural production.

Early Modern Period:

• During the 17th century, Valls, like much of Catalonia, was affected by the Reapers' War (1640–1659), a conflict against the Spanish monarchy.
• In the 18th century, Valls expanded economically due to agriculture and the production of textiles.

19th Century:

• Valls played a part in the Peninsular War (1808–1814) against Napoleonic France, facing occupation and battles in the region.
• The town experienced industrial growth in the 19th century, with a focus on textiles and agriculture, especially the cultivation of hazelnuts and wine production.

20th Century:

• The Spanish Civil War (1936–1939) had significant impacts on Valls, as it did on the rest of Spain. The town endured hardships during the conflict and the subsequent Francoist regime.
• In the latter half of the 20th century, Valls underwent modernization and economic diversification.

Notable Historical Figures

• Josep Maria Jujol (1879–1949): A prominent Catalan architect and collaborator of Antoni Gaudí, Jujol was born in Tarragona but had significant influences in the area around Valls. His work is known for its creativity and imaginative designs.

Important Landmarks

• Iglesia de Sant Joan: This is one of the most significant landmarks in Valls. The church is notable for its impressive Gothic-style architecture and serves as a central point for the town's cultural and religious activities.
• Plaça del Blat: This square is the heart of Valls and is traditionally where castells (human towers) are performed, a practice that originated in the town and has become a symbol of Catalan culture.
• Museu de Valls: The Valls Museum offers insights into the local history and culture, showcasing archaeological finds, art collections, and historical documents related to the town and region.

Cultural Significance

• Castells: Valls is recognized as the birthplace of the castells, a UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage tradition involving the building of human towers. The two main colles, or teams, in Valls are the Colla Vella dels Xiquets de Valls and the Colla Joves Xiquets de Valls.

Festivals

• Festa Major de Sant Joan: Celebrated in June, this is the town's major festival, featuring parades, concerts, traditional dances, and castells performances.
• Calçotada: Valls is famous for its calçotada, a gastronomic festival celebrating the harvest of calçots, a type of green onion, which is grilled and served with romesco sauce.

Valls continues to be a vibrant town with a rich cultural heritage, attracting visitors for its traditions, historical sites, and culinary specialties.