Ontinyent

The second stage of our route leads us to the economic and administrative capital of the Vall d'Albaida region: Ontinyent.

The presence of the textile activity has been a constant feature in Ontinyent and La Vall d'Albaida. In fact, this activity dates back to the Bronze Age, 3 500 years ago. In Islamic Times the region developed the wool textile manufacture, both in Ontinyent and Bocairent.

Textile location and development in the region is related to the hydraulic factor. Waterwheels and water mains were the original source of energy until the steam machine was invented, together with stockbreeding, which was the raw material. The development of these hydraulic infrastructures throughout the 15th century is the evidence that there were three very dynamic centres: Albaida, Bocairent and Ontinyent. From that moment, periods of prosperity alternate with times of crisis, specialization changes, use of different raw materials, technological improvements, etc.

Metamorphosis of Ontinyent's society from an agricultural based society (with the presence of industrial activities) to an industrial society, the driving force of this region's economy, takes place in the fifties of the 20th century. Nowadays, Ontinyent, Aielo de Malferit, Agullent, Albaida and Bocairent form the vertebral column of the sector's development in the region.

Many are the companies where you can buy all types of blankets, duvets, bedspread, towels, sheets and household textile products.

At the same time you can also buy confectionery products and the famous handmade sausages of Ontinyent.