Valencia flood recovery: New local traditions and ongoing infrastructure struggles

As the second anniversary of the devastating DANA floods in Valencia approaches, communities in the region continue to face both recovery challenges and new symbols of solidarity.

In Paiporta, students from the hospitality schools at IES Guillem d’Alcalà and IES La Sénia created a local dessert called ‘Coca del Poble’ to support bakeries and pastry shops affected by the floods. Using regional ingredients like pumpkin, orange, and almond, the initiative aims to become a permanent symbol of the town’s resilience and a staple of local tradition.

Meanwhile, in Catarroja, residents of a building in Plaza Corts Valencianes report ongoing difficulties due to a non-functional elevator. Two years after the floodwaters submerged the lift, neighbors—including elderly residents and those recovering from surgery—must navigate steep spiral staircases. The delay in repairs has been attributed to disputes over repair budgets and insurance consortium assessments.