These constructions were used to
store snow that was later sold to the nearby towns.
Most were built at the beginning of the 18th Century,
and many had a masonry dome built on top of two or
more temporary arches.
Within the Well, the snow was compacted by stepping
on it. When a hard snow layer of a metre or so was
obtained, it was insulated with a layer of dried
grass. Once full a heavier layer of
material would be added and the doors sealed
carefully.
With the arrival of the summer period
(and in special in the two celebrations of the summer:
the 25th July and the 15th August) the snow was extracted
from the well for the manufacture of refreshments
and ice creams, and was transported by large teams
of mules or donkeys during the night to reduce the
losses.
Snow has been used to preserve foods,
to keep drinks cool and for medical purposes for
4,000 years or more but it was between the 16th and
19th Century that this industry reached its peak
in this area. This period was especially cold and
rainy and snow became a popular item of consumption.
The snow wells fell into disuse towards the end of
the 19th Century with the advent of industrial ice.
The mountainous relief and the lucrative
commerce of snow was the cause of many snow wells
in the Sierra Aitana and today they make up a very
important part of Valencia's heritage.
There are several walks and bike rides
on which you can see these impressive structures.
Pla de La Casa (Serella Range) Walk
Sierra Aitana Walk
Aitana Adventure MTB Ride
Sierra Del Plans North MTB Ride
Sierra Del Plans South MTB Ride |
