Enguera

Enguera, Spain | The value of the unknown

Textile manufacturing (mostly family business specialized in underwear and trousers) and agriculture were for many years the main activities in Enguera [5.000 inhabitants, in Valencia region]. The crisis in the 70s caused the closing of the most important textile factories. On the other side, nowadays the local agricultural plays an important role producing a high quality product: the extra virgin olive oil of Enguera. Nevertheless, it is in the services sector where the most important bet for the near future of the village is taking place. By one hand, nature tourism empowered in the activities and projects promoted by the Turcaroig business association. By the other hand, activities related to culture where a relentless process of investment in infrastructures and human resources is happening.

The Enguera expectations on the URBACT network are: to handle actively with creativity and creativity-based activities to approach a local strategic planning for the coming years as a framework for: i) emerging activities like eco-tourism which needs a cluster approach integrating another related activities like retail or culture; ii) creativity-based business models to give to some existing mature industries a new potential for growth; iii) creativity and knowledge-based models as a source for new start-ups placed in the culture sector or ICTs; to explore some residential developments as a tool for attracting a new type of residents (the creative class), Enguera as a place to live in not just for visiting; to add a new dimension to the place-brand “Caroig” which comprises 23 localities; and to enhance the local cultural agenda considering some major events inspired by creativity.

Enguera will contribute to the network through its experience on: developments in eco-tourism; inclusion of immigrant (talented) people; place branding at a supra-local level; and local museum network.

www.enguera.org