Castellon de la Plana

Castellón de la Plana is the capital city of the province of Castelló, in the Valencian Community, Spain, in the east of the Iberian Peninsula, by the Mediterranean Sea.

Places of interest include the 18th century City Hall, Bishop's Palace, the Teatre Principal and the ‘Llotja del Canem’ (the old Rope Exchange).

The co-cathedral of Santa Maria, was rebuilt after the Civil War but retains a tall 15th century detached bell tower known as ‘El Fadri’.

On the northeast edge of the town stands the Basílica of Santa Maria del Lledó. The chapel dates back to the 14th century and was extended during the 16th century.

Ribelta Park is the oldest park in the city and is home to a wide range of plants, Pergola, Music Pavilion, pond and 'Panderola', an old locomotive.

Museums include the Ethnological Museum, Museum for Modern Art and the Planetarium.

Activities on offer include walking, jet skiing, scuba diving, sailing and swimming.

Popular beaches in the area include Serallo, Ben Afeli and De la Torre beaches.

Shops sell a wide range of items, from locally handmade crafts and souvenirs, to fashion, household ornaments such as glass vases, teapots and candleholders and carved images of saints.

Rice is a staple food and the most popular cuisine here. Paella is a speciality here as is 'arros caldos' (rice stew with chicken). Fresh fish and seafood, especially prawns, lobster and crab are easy to find on menus.

Cruise ships dock at the port of Castellon de la Plana, which is around 6km from the centre of town.