Did you know that Coca-Cola was invented in Spain?

The formula of Coca-Cola is still a mystery. However, its origin has been disclosed in the last few years. And every hint leads us to a village in Valencia, Aielo de Malferit, where a digestive syrup was commercialised as Anís Celestial (‘Celestial Anise’). This dark beverage was prepared from kola nut and coca leaves from Peru in a distillery that remains open in the present: Destilerías Ayelo. At the time, it was actually declared as official supplier of the royal household.

This distillery has come a long way. This drink was supposedly first introduced in the state of Philadelphia among others in 1885. And one year later the world saw the drink that we know now, which is suspiciously similar to the former. Its pioneer was a pharmacist from Atlanta called John Pemberton. And although it hasn’t been directly proven that the drink from Valencia inspired the actual one, relevant dates support this theory. People at Aielo de Malferit defend the obvious link between the two beverages.

Aielo de Malferit. | Shutterstock

When Coca-Cola became popular in the 1950’s, the company was required to buy the patent to this distillery, a fact that was officially reported. And since that moment, the Anís Celestial that brought many gold medals to the company has been prepared with a certain amount of alcohol.

Located in the south of Valencia, Aielo de Malferit houses around 5000 citizens. Life in this area dates back to the 13th century. And although it is famous for its 120 year-old distillery, one of the oldest in Spain, there is so much more to see in this location. For instance, you can enjoy plenty of hiking routes.