Estudio histórico jurídico de un realengo valencianoLa Albufera de Valencia (1245-1708)

Abstract

The exploitation of the salt mines, the distribution and commercialization of the salt together with the receipt of the corresponding rents were considered a regia prerogative from the time of Jaime I (13th century) until the end of the Ancient Regime. During the Late Middle Ages the income that sustained the Valencian hacienda carne primarily from ad valorem taxes ("generalitats") which taxed both the consumption and the export and import of certain products, including salt. This natural product of great value in the Kingdom of Valencia was one of the main monopolies of the Crown while also reporting to the same important sources of income. Revenues from the salt tax (Dret General de sal) not only nourished the coffers of the Generalitat in the early sixteenth century was devoted to the maintenance of the expenditure of the defence of the Valencian coastline.