Paella originated in the Spanish countryside near the city of Valencia, where the fertile river valleys run into the Mediterranean sea. Paella is truly a masterpiece of Spanish cuisine. Valencia's temperate climate and fertile lands make an ideal spot for growing specialty rice, and the proximity to the sea make seafood plentiful. The locals would utilize the ingredients available, rice and seafood, to make marvelous feasts in honor of birthdays, Saint's days, and festivals. Paella takes it's name from the wide shallow pan that it is cooked in, traditionally called the Paella or Paellera - that’s correct, it is the pan itself that is called the Paella!