The town is characterized by a dry Mediterranean climate, with an average annual rainfall around 400 mm (16 in) and temperatures ranging from 5 °C (41 °F) minimum in January to 32 °C (90 °F) maximum in August, reaching every summer peaks above 40 °C (104 °F).

It is believed that it was at this time the original place name of Paterna was first used which is supposed to make reference to the Latin word "Paternus" or belonging to the father, alluding to the social and legal status of the property.

In the municipal district, there have been found remains of an aqueduct system that extends to Massamagrell and might link through to Sagunto, a large Roman site.

In February 2009, the excavation of a plot which was planned for housing led to the discovery of the ruins of a Roman villa, dated between the 1st and 3rd centuries.

[citation needed] According to the Book of Distribution, the farm of Paterna was given to Artal de Luna, one of those appointed by James I to write the Jurisdictions.

In 1436 Alfonso the Magnanimous gave possession of Paterna to the infant Henry, son of Ferdinand I of Antequera and Duke of Segovia.

Population growth starts slowly with a flow of immigration and the enlargement of Paterna with the construction of The Camp neighborhood with houses and chalets for bourgeoisie from Valencia, and a military barracks for protection of the city In the 20th century the creation of the industrial area, Polígono Fuente del Jarro, generated a strong demand for labor that subsequently attracted a flow of immigration that changed the economy and the urban aspect of Paterna.

The creation of the Polígono Fuente del Jarro industrial area favored immigration between 1950 and 1970 in which Paterna experienced significant social and urban change, coming up triple the population.

Paterna is located in l'horta, an area known as the red belt (Spanish: cinturón rojo) due to its tendency to vote for left wing parties.

In the town there are: the Industrial area Fuente del Jarro, L'Andana, the city's business Tactica and the Technological Park of Valencia.