Artichokes continue gaining ground in Spain because of their health properties and popularity as a gourmet product. So much so, that four of the main regions that produce it (Valencia, Navarre, Murcia and Catalonia) are making use of it as added value to attract tourism at the International Tourism Fair (FITUR), which will be held until 24 January at Feria de Madrid (IFEMA).
Specifically, Valencia's initiative has been led by Benicarló and its protected designation of origin (PDO). This town of Castellón will not only act as an ambassador of the product, as in previous years, but also actively participate in the event with cooking demonstrations that will allow international visitors to discover first-hand the benefits and possibilities of this vegetable.
For its part, Navarre is once again making use of Tudela as one of the pillars on which to support its gastronomic proposals. This city will make white artichokes and their corresponding protected geographical indication (PGI) protagonists of Fitur, promoting the traditional Days and Feast for the Exaltation of the Vegetable and making use of it in different forms, including a number of tastings.
The region of Murcia is also strongly committed to promoting its agricultural products. The Department of Employment, Tourism and Culture of the capital will take advantage of the opportunity to present a video filmed with drones that will show the wealth and potential of vegetable plantations and orchards. Furthermore, several municipalities in this region will take their flagship foods, including artichokes.
Lastly, this year Catalonia is presenting an original stand at Fitur, featuring a kitchen with pantry included. The idea is to stress that it is the European Region of Gastronomy 2016, a prestigious title that the Catalan Tourism Agency wants to use to showcase the singularity of its typical food products to tourists. Thus, its position as an artichoke production area will also be highlighted.