The parliamentary initiative arrives at an "especially significant" moment, as 2026 marks the 700th anniversary of the historical establishment of Valencia's Corpus Christi, "one of the oldest, most unique, and representative ritual, heritage, and festive manifestations of the Valencian people".
Spokespersons highlighted that "this anniversary represents an exceptional opportunity to strengthen the protection, research, conservation, and international projection of a cultural heritage that transcends its religious dimension and has been part of Valencian collective identity since the 14th century".
The Corpus Christi of Valencia, declared Intangible Asset of Cultural Interest by the Generalitat Valenciana in 2010, has historically served as a model and reference for numerous Corpus Christi celebrations throughout the Valencian territory.
The proposal submitted to Congress urges the Ministry of Culture to collaborate with the Generalitat Valenciana in preparing a robust candidacy for UNESCO that recognizes the exceptional universal value of the Valencian Corpus celebrations and their contribution to the preservation of European and Mediterranean intangible cultural heritage.
Compromís had previously succeeded in passing a motion in the València City Council to support this candidacy. In this regard, coalition councilor Pere Fuset explained: "We managed to move this initiative forward, overcoming the initial blockade by María José Catalá's government".
“"It would be important for the same consensus we achieved here to extend to other institutions to prepare a solid candidacy with unanimous support. Like a cathedral, or other festivals already recognized by UNESCO such as Algemesí or Misteri d'Elx, the 'great festival' of Corpus transcends its religious dimension and represents a rich heritage treasure to be preserved by everyone."
