The proposal, submitted with institutional respect and a willingness for dialogue, seeks to be a civic recognition of a citizen movement that, for over two decades, decisively contributed to preventing the destruction of an essential part of Cabanyal, a Cultural Heritage Site and patrimony of all Valencians.
It is not an initiative against anyone. It is not revenge. It is not an attempt to reopen old wounds. It is simply a positive proposal, a proposal for civic recognition of a citizen movement that for more than two decades decisively contributed to preventing the destruction of an essential part of Cabanyal.
Between 1998 and 2019, the Salvem el Cabanyal movement represented an exemplary form of citizen participation. With weekly assemblies, admirable perseverance, and a peaceful and proactive attitude, hundreds of people dedicated time and effort to defending the neighborhood, its residents, its historical heritage, and its collective identity. This movement was plural and transversal, with the participation of residents, associations, professionals, social entities, and the university world, including the University of Valencia and the Polytechnic University.
The work of Salvem el Cabanyal transcended the local sphere, positioning the neighborhood nationally and internationally as an example of heritage at risk and committed citizen response. As a result of this work, the neighborhood was included by the World Monuments Fund in its “Watch List” and received European recognition with a Europa Nostra Award, as well as support from Hispania Nostra.
Today, the value of the Cabanyal-Canyamelar neighborhood as one of Valencia's most unique is undeniable. The proposal for Plaça Salvem el Cabanyal is considered an act of democratic justice and shared memory, not to divide, but to unite and learn from the past. This recognition also addresses the present and future, tackling challenges such as real estate pressure, rising rents, and the difficulty of access to housing for young people.
Defending Cabanyal's identity involves integrating diversity without losing what gives the neighborhood its personality: its traditions, its memory, its historical relationship with the sea, local commerce, street life, its own language, and intergenerational coexistence. Furthermore, important urban issues remain pending, such as closing the scars of old demolitions and sensitively resolving the continuity of the urban fabric to the promenade.
The proposed square is located between the new Civic Center and the old Slaughterhouse, which served as the platform's headquarters for years, symbolizing the transition from conflict to coexistence. The association hopes that the City Council will consider this proposal with an open mind, requesting memory, respect, and a sense of city. The Plaça Salvem el Cabanyal would serve as a "mobile alert" to remind everyone of the risks threatening Historic Centers and the importance of defending the future of neighborhoods.
