If you're planning a trip to Valencia, you'll have realised that there are plenty of interesting places to explore. In fact, with so much on offer, you may not know what to see. So today we're going to take you on a tour of three of the city's must-sees. Mark your calendars, because you won't want to miss them.
Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències
Our first stop takes us to a place that seems straight out of the distant future: the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències in Valencia. The first thing you'll notice as you approach the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències is its stunning architecture. Situated along the old Turia riverbed, the complex was designed by two internationally renowned Spanish architects: Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela. Calatrava contributed the Palau de les Arts, the Hemisfèric, the Museu de les Ciències and the Umbracle, while Candela left his unique mark on the Àgora and the roofs of the Oceanogràfic.
Buildings of the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències
The complex consists of six main elements:
The Hemisfèric: housing an IMAX cinema, digital projections and 3D experiences.
The Umbracle: a landscaped viewing platform and car park offering panoramic views of the entire complex and its surroundings.
The Museu de les Ciències: science centre with interactive exhibits and exciting activities.
The Oceanogràfic: the largest aquarium in Europe.
The Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía: building dedicated to opera programming and other cultural performances.
The Ágora: multifunctional space for events and exhibitions.
Lonja de la Seda
Our next stop is the historic centre of Valencia, where we will find the Lonja de la Seda. This building is one of the most famous civil Gothic monuments in Europe and has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Its history dates back to the 13th century, when the old Lonja could no longer accommodate the flourishing city. Construction of the new Lonja began in 1469 under the direction of Pere Compte, a Valencian engineer and architect. The result was an extraordinary building consisting of three main bodies and a beautiful orange tree courtyard.
The Sala de Contratación y la Taula de Canvis
One of the highlights of the Lonja is the Sala de Contratación, also known as the Salón Columnario. It is divided into three longitudinal and five transverse naves, supported by eight free-standing columns that reach a height of 17.40 metres. The Taula de Canvis, a financial institution, was installed here in 1407. Today the Taula de Canvis is housed in the Valencia City Archives.
The Torreón and the prison of defaulting merchants
The second part of the building, known as the Torreón, housed a chapel dedicated to the Immaculate Conception on the ground floor, while the two upper floors were used as a prison for defaulting merchants.
Valencia Cathedral
The majestic Valencia Cathedral stands in splendour in the historic Plaza de la Virgen, next to the Basilica of the Virgen de los Desamparados. Its history dates back to 1238, when it was consecrated and dedicated to James I the Conqueror, and was the epicentre of the Archbishopric of Valencia. This imposing Gothic building stands on the foundations of the ancient Balansiya Mosque, marking the transition from Muslim to Christian domination in the region.
The Cathedral is a living witness to architectural evolution over the centuries. Its main structure, built between the 13th and 15th centuries, has Gothic elements, but also reveals Baroque, Romanesque, Renaissance and Neoclassical influences, reflecting its long and fascinating history.
On the outside, the Romanesque Porta de l'Almoina, the Chapel of Sant Jordi, the Obra Nova of Italian Renaissance inspiration, the Micalet of Valencian Gothic style, the Puerta de los Apóstoles of French Gothic influence and the Puerta de los Hierros of Italian Baroque style stand out.
Come and discover Valencia!
Valencia is a city full of cultural, architectural and natural treasures, and the three places we've explored are just the beginning. Whether you're interested in science and culture, history or fun in the sun, the city has something to offer every traveller.
And while you plan your visit to these must-see places, we invite you to stay at the Conqueridor Hotel, where we offer an exclusive hospitality experience in the centre of Valencia. Our hotel is the perfect base from which to explore all that the city has to offer. We hope to see you soon and help you make your trip to Valencia an amazing experience!