Rural depopulation is a reality in many areas of Spain. In Valencia, some villages struggle to keep alive their history, culture and tourist attraction.
According to the National Institute of Statistics (INE), these are the 5 municipalities in the province of Valencia with fewer inhabitants registered, although in seasons like summer they may increase their population. We invite you to discover them.
Sempere
Located in the region of the Vall d’Albaida, it is the town with the fewest inhabitants, according to the latest data from the INE. In 2024 there were 29 people living here all year round. Its main tourist attractions are the Parish Church of San Pedro Apostle, a neoclassical building of the eighteenth century and the hermitage of Cristo de Gracia, overlooking the Bellús reservoir from a nearby viewpoint.
Puebla de San Miguel
The second least inhabited municipality is located in the Rincón de Ademuz, with 51 inhabitants. It is part of the Puebla de San Miguel Natural Park, which is home to monumental junipers such as “Las Blancas” and the Alto de las Barracas (1,838 m), the highest peak in the Valencian Community.
Of its architecture we highlight the Parish Church of San Miguel from the XVII century with altarpieces attributed to the school of Juan de Juanes.
Carrícola
This picturesque village in the Vall d’Albaida has focused all its appeal to ecology, with green routes that merge art, sustainability and nature. We recommend the Castell and Camins de l’Aigua routes.
Its 99 inhabitants are pioneers in organic farming and sustainable practices that give this town the distinction of being the most ecological municipality in the province.
Estubeny
Nestled in La Canal de Navarrés, the 109 inhabitants of Estubeny enjoy all year round the Cabrentà, a “Mediterranean jungle” with subtropical vegetation, unique limestone formations and abundant birdlife. If you come you can visit the parish church of San Onofre, and nature trails that descend to the river Sellent.
Llocnou de la Corona
The smallest municipality in Spain is populated by 131 people. It has only 6 streets and its visit can be combined with a route through the Albufera, which is just a few kilometers away.