Ricard Pérez Casado Dies: Valencia Mayor Who Turned Turia Riverbed into Garden

Ricard Pérez Casado, the former mayor of Valencia, passed away on Monday night at the age of 80. His funeral took place in an intimate ceremony on Wednesday. Serving as mayor from 1979 until late 1988, Pérez Casado was the second mayor following Spain’s transition to democracy.

Legacy of Ricard Pérez Casado

Pérez Casado’s most notable achievement is the transformation of the Turia Riverbed. Initially planned for highways during Franco’s regime, it was turned into a sprawling urban garden. This lush area extends over 10 kilometers in length and 200 meters in width, providing a vibrant green space for all citizens.

• Transformed Turia Riverbed into an urban garden.
• Extended 10 kilometers long and 200 meters wide.
• Promoted the Palau de la Música and Valencia Metro.
• Implemented the General Urban Planning Plan.

Contributions to Valencia and Beyond

In 1996, Pérez Casado was appointed by the European Union as the administrator of Mostar, Bosnia-Herzegovina, following the Balkan conflict. His vision of an open, cosmopolitan city influenced Valencia’s political and cultural landscape significantly.

Under his leadership, Valencia began prioritizing culture and green spaces in urban development. This approach often faced opposition from entrenched economic interests and traditionalist viewpoints as the city emerged from the long shadow of dictatorship.

Recognition and Commemoration

Following his passing, numerous tributes highlighted his impact on Valencia. Diana Morant, the secretary general of PSPV, remarked on his indelible mark as a public servant committed to a fairer Valencia. Other political figures, including mayor María José Catalá, echoed sentiments of sorrow at his loss.

A Day of Mourning

The Valencia City Council declared three days of official mourning from January 14 to 16 in honor of Pérez Casado’s contributions. The former mayor’s commitment to envisioning a better city for its citizens resonated deeply within the community.

His legacy, encapsulated by the Turia River garden, serves as a testament to his forward-thinking ideas in modern urban planning. Pérez Casado envisioned Valencia as a city that fosters community, culture, and shared green spaces. This vision continues to inspire current and future leaders.