CASTELLN DE LA PLANA

city, capital of Castelln provincia, in the comunidad autnoma (autonomous community) of Valencia, eastern Spain. Castelln de la Plana is situated north of Valencia city on a fertile plain near the Mediterranean coast. Founded originally on top of the nearby La Magdalena Hill, it was captured from the Moors by James I of Aragon in 1233 and, on petition of its inhabitants in 1251, was moved to its present site on a fertile plain near the Mediterranean. It was made the provincial capital in 1833 and in 1873 was given the status of a city. Historic landmarks include the 14th-century Gothic-style Santa Mara Church, with a detached belfry 150 feet (46 m) high (15911604), and the 17th-century town hall. Oranges, hemp, and coloured tiles are exported from the city's port, El Grao de Castelln. Tourism is based on the local beaches. Pop. (1992 est.) mun., 135,683.