Observaciones sobre la historia natural, geografia, agricultura, poblacion y frutos del Reyno de Valencia

The Observations on the natural history, geography, agriculture, population, and fruits of the Kingdom of Valencia, written during the last decade of the 18th century, is the less botanic work of Cavanilles. Inspired by the enlightenment, the book is a methodical presentation of the plants and crops of the territory of the Valencia kingdom. It is one of the geographical works, results of the typical study trips around Europe that contributed to the formation of scientific positivism of the 19th century. 

The naturalist traveller did not talk about the cities and the citizens. Even if he did not talk only about the natural environment – he also admired human art – the most important issue of the work is the description of the flora, agriculture and soils of the kingdom divided into four parts. The final index, with places and plants, shows the impressive completeness of the Cavanilles’ book. It is still considered a classic to understand the economic history and the geography of the Valencia region. 

F.D.