Quality of Life
A greener city
Monjo’s gardenIt is necessary to point out the interest of the people of Elche and the efforts they make to conserve and increase the area of parks and gardens, as well as green urban spaces. Special attention is paid to the preservation of the palm tree groves which represent the city’s identity, and at the same time breathe life into it.
The council’s protection policy for Elche’s Palmeral brought about the naming of the palm tree groves as a World Heritage by UNESCO in November 2001, for their exceptional value as unique palm tree groves in Europe and as a prime example of cultural exchange between continents.
A part of these palm tree groves, whose total surface area is 5,400,000 m2(in the city and countryside) has been made into public leisure areas in the form of parks and gardens. Currently, 75% of the palm groves in the city (2,700,000 m^2^) are public property.
Citizens have 12.39 m2 per inhabitant of green zones at their disposal The Municipal Park stands out both for tourists as well as the local people due to its singularity and appeal. It covers an area of 60,000 m2 and has been converted into a place where relaxation and cultural activities coexist. Along with this is El Huerto del Cura (the priest’s garden), proclaimed a national artistic garden, with an area of 13,000 m2. It is privately owned but is open to the public. Parque Filet de Fora is also very important. Covering an area of 50,000 m2 it is the fruit of the restoration and grouping together of three former gardens. As well as being a beautiful scenic environment it also boasts sports facilities.
The Palm tree Theme Area is a recent creation which can be found in one of the city’s most central and characteristic gardens. It is an area where visitors can enjoy a cultural walk and get to know crafts and jobs related to the palm, the traditional gardens and the irrigation system, as well as research carried out into the world of the palm tree.
The Vinalopó river bed Finally, standing out due to its originality, the Vinalopó river bed, which has been made into gardens and runs from the north to the south of the city, constitutes a centre for recreation and sport for the people of Elche as well as offering a memorable image to visitors.
To sum up, the citizens have 12.39 m2 per inhabitant of green zones at their disposal. This indicates that the city is above average in the parameters set by the World Health Organization, which vary from 10 to 15 m2.
