To obtain this bag, interested individuals must purchase a book in Valencian from one of the local bookstores participating in the initiative, such as Ambra, Gavina, or Ferrer. The bag will be distributed while supplies last, aiming to reward reading habits and strengthen the use of the local language.
The action is organized through the AVIVA Agency for the Promotion of Valencian and combines cultural promotion with local identity. The bag features an illustration by the Lola Terreta studio depicting the silhouette of La Delicà of Gandia alongside the Collegiate Church, constructed from characteristic words and expressions like fideuà, the Tio de la Porra, panous, or the Torre dels Pares.
Beyond the material incentive, the campaign revives the story that gives rise to the nickname of Gandia's inhabitants. The legend, set in the 15th century during the period of Dukes Joan Borja and Maria Enríquez, tells of the death of a young woman after being struck by a stone rose window. Popular irony coined the term “delicate,” alluding to her having died from the blow of a flower.
According to tradition, upon shrouding her, it was discovered that she wore a chastity belt with the Borja coat of arms, which fueled the belief of a relationship with the duke. As a scorn, Maria Enríquez ordered her to be buried at the threshold of one of the doors of the Collegiate Church.
“"We want to encourage reading in our language and, at the same time, reclaim the stories and words that are part of our collective identity."
With this initiative, citizens are invited to engage with reading in Valencian while rediscovering the popular imagery that defines Gandia's identity.
