This book perfectly presents the situation of the coastal district of El Cabanyal in Valencia, in both its physical and social dimensions. A hinge between the city, Cap i Casal, and the sea, this urban slice attached to El Grau was saved from developmentalism and abandonment, already in democratic times, by citizens coordinated under Salvem El Cabanyal. For years they have kept the movement alive, backed by architects and cultural organizations, and with the last progressive Town Hall they have managed to put the neighborhood on the municipal agenda.

With a string of official plans for redevelopment shelved – deemed ineffective and blind to realities – the revitalization of this area is on the track of good urbanism, thought up with inhabitants’ aspirations in mind. Manuel de Solà-Morales said: “Nothing builds city like a good building.” I add: in the right place, on a good street.

With our cities now entrusted to financial power, it is vital to disseminate cases of resistance and defend initiatives to implement new urban policies. As a Valencian and a committed architect who has worked in defense of the city for decades, I value this experience heartily, convinced that a healthy built domain speaks of healthy citizens and governance; and that malformations are the clearest sign of cities’ abandonment to inefficient, uncultured, unjust hands. Not to mention corrupt.

In recommending this book I thank the people and architects of El Cabanyal for defending a historic poblat marítim, for bringing its value to the fore in the Valencia to come.