OUR URBAN MODEL
Álava stands out for the proximity and quality of its social services and an impressive network of socio-cultural and sports facilities.
- Social services: the percentage of GDP allocated to social services is double the average for Spain. Per inhabitant expenditure on social services is also the highest in the Basque Country. The Provincial Council of Álava runs an extensive catalogue of social programmes and services through its autonomous Foral Institute of Social Welfare (IFBS).
- Facilities: Vitoria-Gasteiz maintains an exemplary municipal network of socio-cultural and sports facilities which is marked by its convenient distribution throughout the various neighborhoods, the diversity of available activities, programmes, courses and workshops, and by the quality of its facilities: 14 Community Centres and an extensive number of sports facilities, at which almost 40% of its population are enrolled.
- Green and healthy surroundings Álava offers the pleasure of living in a green and healthy environment. Vitoria-Gasteiz, with 42 square meters per inhabitant, is one of the European cities with the largest area of green and landscaped spaces per person. More than half of Álava is classified as an Outstanding and Singular Landscape and 28% of its surface area forms part of the European Natura 2000 Network. Álava is home to five Natural Parks where nature can be enjoyed to the fullest.
