The imposing gorge of the Gritos River sculpts and shapes the landscape and ecosystem around Valeria: Deep limestone canyons, diverse vegetation in which thyme and rosemary mingle with black juniper and poplar groves, and peregrine falcons and eagle owls.
Valeria’s splendor spans from the time of Augustus to the Flavian emperors. Over this time the city grew in importance and grandeur. That said, we have found remains from the Republic, including part of the original forum and some adjacent buildings. Due to the plateau's irregular terrain, Roman architects built a large artificial terrace on the narrowest part of the city to create a flat space with four retaining walls suitable to support and hold a big square.