Riuraus

The riurau is the most characteristic traditional architectural figure of El Poble Nou de Benitatxell, and of the entire Marina Alta. Its structure has been linked to agricultural functions and muscat raisin production since the 19th century and, finally, has influenced the subsequent construction style.

Its «structure» is based on a porticoed ground floor, with arcades (normally semicircular arches, often lowered), and covered with a single or gable roof. The riurau served to shelter the raisins, arranged in reeds, in case of rain or humidity during the drying process. The arches allow ventilation and the building is usually always oriented towards the south or west, never towards the north. Hence, the proliferation of riurau occurred with the expansion of the production, marketing and export of raisins until reaching the United Kingdom and even the United States.

The riurau can be integrated into the main construction, the «caseta», attached to the front or one of the sides, or as an independent building. In El Poble Nou de Benitatxell, the riuraus were found throughout the municipality and currently we find them smaller in size, with three or four arches and, generally, integrated into the main building.

Although independent riuraus with a greater number of arcades were also built, as is the case of the riurau de la Torra, which until a few years ago had ten arcades. Currently this type of building with numerous arches is in a ruinous state.

The Poble Nou de Benitatxell was integrated, in 2014, into the Marina Alta program for the enhancement, dissemination and promotion of these typical constructions and their cultural wealth in the Ruta dels Riuraus project.

More information about the Ruta dels Riuraus