Valencia – From Rome to the Future | Walking Tour 🇪🇸 Spain 2025

Valencia – From Rome to the Future | Walking Tour 🇪🇸 Spain 2025

Dear friends, today I invite you to take a walk through the city of Valencia! A city where history meets the future We will begin our walk at the Plaça de la Mare de Déu in Spanish, Plaza de la Virgen — one of the most beautiful and significant squares in the center of Valencia Its history dates back to Roman times The square is located on the site of the forum of Roman Valentia, which became the heart of the city in the 1st century BC. The Turia Fountain (Fuente del Turia) is located in the square a symbolic structure in Valencia’s Plaza de la Virgen in the very heart of old Valencia. The fountain stands right in front of the Basilica of the Virgin of the Forsaken and not far from the Valencia Cathedral. It was installed in 1976 The creator is the sculptor Manuel Silvestre Monleón (Manuel Silvestre de Edeta) The fountain is dedicated to the Turia River, which used to flow through the city center The central figure is the personification of the Turia in the form of a mature, bearded man lying on the water (in the style of ancient Roman river gods) Around him are eight nude female figures, symbolizing: the eight irrigation canals (acequias) of Valencia’s ancient irrigation system, which has its roots in Moorish times Royal Basilica of Our Lady of the Forsaken The water distribution system in Valencia is one of the oldest in Europe It is managed by the Water Tribunal (Tribunal de las Aguas) a court established during the time of Arab rule This court still meets every week right at the Cathedral gates, next to the fountain. The fountain is not just a decoration: it tells of the region’s main wealth — water, which ensured the fertility of the land, the development of agriculture, and the life of the city. It has become an integral part of the look of the Plaza de la Virgen, a popular meeting place, spot for relaxation, and photo opportunities. Also in this square, we can see the Valencia Cathedral and the Basilica of the Virgin of the Forsaken – both are inextricably linked and are jewels of the old city 🏰 Valencia Cathedral Founded in 1238 on the site of a former mosque immediately after the Reconquista — construction was initially led by Bishop Pere d’Albalat Built mainly in the Gothic style, but with Romanesque, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical elements; construction continued until the 17th century According to legend, the Holy Chalice is kept in the Chapel of the Holy Chalice supposedly — the real Grail, it arrived here in the 14th century The central architectural feature is the “Miguelete” tower (El Miguelete), The temple is dedicated to the Virgin of the Forsaken, the patron saint of Valencia, 🏰 Basilica of the Virgin of the Forsaken Built between 1652–1666 based on the design by Diego Martínez Ponce de Urrana, as the first building in Valencia designed from scratch (not on the site of an old temple). The building’s plan is oval, which was unusual for the era, with an exposed Baroque central chapel (camarín), built between 1694-1694 The dome was painted with frescoes by Antonio Palomino in 1701 — a masterpiece of Spanish Baroque The temple is dedicated to the Virgin of the Forsaken, the patron saint of Valencia, whose image has been venerated since the 15th century. The Basilica is located next to the cathedral in the Plaza de la Virgen — the site of the ancient Roman Forum The Cathedral reflects the changing eras: from a Roman temple, through Byzantine and Moorish periods, to Christian Gothic. The Basilica is an example of the early Baroque style and an expression of a deep local religious tradition — the Virgin of the Forsaken. Together they create an architectural ensemble, that unites the history, faith, and art of Valencia. We also passed by the Miguelete Tower El Miguelete – the symbol of the Valencia Cathedral. 🕰 History of the “Miguelete” tower: Construction began in 1381 under the direction of Andreu Juliá, then work was continued by Josep Franch, Pere Balaguer, and Martí Llobet. Construction was completed in 1429, although the spire was only added during the Baroque era (1660–1736) The tower is built in the Gothic style, with an octagonal cross-section. Its height is 63 m (to the spire) or 50.85 m to the terrace. The perimeter of the terrace coincides with the height of the tower The name El Miguelete (from Valencian Micalet) comes from the main bell, cast between 1418-1539, in honor of Saint Michael. Metonymy: the bell gave its name to the tower 🛠 Architecture and function of the tower: Originally, the tower stood separately and was only joined to the cathedral when its central part was extended in the 15th century Inside there are three levels: The base — massive, with a spiral staircase; The middle — a former prison or shelter; Higher up — the bell-ringer’s house; The top — a hall with 8 openings, where the bells are located, access to the terrace is via a spiral staircase A total of 207 steps lead to the top The role of the tower in history and modern times: In the 14th–15th centuries — the city’s guard: from the terrace, one could spot approaching ships and possible attacks, hence the tower served an observational function. It houses one of the largest sets of Gothic bells in Spain: El Miguelete — the largest;
Another 11 bells, including Catalina (1305) and Jaume (1429) Maintenance and restoration are carried out by the “Campaneros de la Catedral” — until the 20th century, the bells were mechanized, but with the 1992 restoration, many artisanal techniques were restored. The Miguelete Tower is one of Valencia’s iconic structures: Built in the 14th–15th centuries in the Gothic style One of the best viewpoints in the city A symbol of the historical connection between architecture, religion, and urban life Now we are entering the Plaza de la Almoina and its central architectural element — the Puerta de la Almoina (also known as Porta del Palau) — this is the historical heart of Valencia, rich in culture and memorable places: 🏛 Plaza de la Almoina Square This is the city’s oldest square, located on the site of the Roman forum from the 1st century AD. The name is connected to the house of charity (almoina in Valencian), established in the 13th century to help the poor. Food and shelter were distributed here. Previously, fruit and firewood markets were located here, so the square was named “Plaza de la Fruita” and “de la Llenya” Under the square itself, an extensive archaeological complex has been preserved — the Roman Forum, — the Roman Forum, Visigothic, and Muslim buildings. Now it is the “Centro Arqueológico de l’Almoina” museum with underground excavations 🚪 Puerta de la Almoina (Porta del Palau) 🏗 Built in the mid-13th century (c. 1262–1270) in the Romanesque-Mudéjar style — the oldest part of the Valencia Cathedral Also called Puerta del Palau, because the Archbishop’s Palace is on the other side Design features: Six concentric semicircular arches on slender columns. Rich carved decoration: scenes from the Old Testament, fantastical animals, floral patterns. Above the arch are “canecs” (corbels) with bas-reliefs of seven medieval couples — possibly symbolizing the founders of Christian Valencia. Its orientation to the east (towards Mecca) suggests that the mihrab of the old mosque stood here. At the entrance to the door, there is a memorial plaque in honor of the poet Ausiàs March, whose history is connected with the cathedral. Historical connection: this place is a point where ancient Roman chambers, a Muslim mosque, and a Christian cathedral meet. Architectural diversity: from the Romanesque-Mudéjar portal to the Gothic and Baroque ensemble of the cathedral and the palace. Underground museum: archaeological layers reveal the history of Valencia from the 1st century to modern times. Status as a cultural center: nearby are the cathedral, basilica, palace, and the center of civic life — everywhere you can feel the spirit of the old city. Walking through the Historic Center we will once again come out to the Plaza de la Virgen and I will continue to tell you the history of the city of Valencia Valencia (València) was founded in 138 BC by the Romans under the name Valentia Edetanorum. It was a military settlement for veterans, located at a strategic crossroads of rivers and trade routes. Moorish period (8th–13th centuries): In 714, Valencia was conquered by the Moors. Under Islamic rule, the city became a major center of science, irrigation, and crafts. A powerful water supply system was built, which is still in operation today. Reconquista and Christian prosperity: In 1238, King James I of Aragon liberated Valencia from the Moors. The city began to grow rapidly as the capital of the Kingdom of Valencia within the Crown of Aragon. The 15th century became the “golden age” of Valencia: The silk trade flourishes The Llotja de la Seda (Silk Exchange), the Serranos Towers, and the Quart Towers are built The first banks and printing presses appear (in 1474 — the first book in the Spanish language) In the 16th–17th centuries, Valencia lost its economic influence. In the 18th century, after the War of the Spanish Succession, the region’s autonomy was abolished — the Castilianization of the city began. 19th–20th centuries: industrialization and modernism In 1808, Valencia suffered from Napoleon’s troops. Later, the city grew due to textiles and railways, and became an active center of republican Spain. During the Civil War (1936–1939) Valencia was even the temporary capital of the Second Republic. Modern Valencia: Since the 1980s, the city has been actively restored and expanded. After the floods of 1957, the course of the Turia River was diverted, and the old riverbed was turned into a green park — one of the largest in Europe. Between 1998–2009, the City of Arts and Sciences was built — a symbol of modern Spanish architecture. We will also get there today Today, Valencia is the third-largest city in Spain: A center of technology, biomedicine, and design The homeland of paella, Fallas, and horchata A mix of Gothic, Baroque, Modernism, and Futurism Valencia is located on the east coast, by the Mediterranean Sea Population (2024): about 800,000 people (3rd largest city in Spain after Madrid and Barcelona) Metropolitan area: over 1.6 million inhabitants Main attractions of Valencia: Valencia Cathedral and the Miguelete Tower La Lonja de la Seda — a Gothic masterpiece Torres de Serranos — 14th-century gates Central Market (Mercado Central) — the largest food market in Europe in the Modernist style Plaza de la Virgen and the Basilica of the Virgin of the Forsaken Turia Gardens — 9 km of parks, avenues, bridges, and fountains Malvarrosa and El Cabanyal beaches — clean, urban Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (City of Arts and Sciences): includes a planetarium, a science museum, an oceanarium, and an opera house Ruzafa district — art spaces, cafes, modern spirit The Fallas festival (Las Fallas) — a fire festival with giant figures and fireworks Festivals of the Virgin of the Forsaken — a large-scale flower procession in spring The Night of San Juan festival in Valencia Many holidays and festivals take place in Valencia I will tell you about the most famous ones Let’s start with the Night of San Juan festival in Valencia — a combination of ancient traditions, fire, and the sea as we are taking our walking tour on the eve of this festival The festival originates from ancient pagan rituals, associated with the summer solstice. People lit fires in honor of the sun to strengthen its power on the shortest day of the year. With the advent of Christianity, the festival was timed to coincide with the Birth of John the Baptist (San Juan Bautista) — June 24th Rituals and symbolism: 1. Bonfires (hogueras) — They burn all night, symbolizing purification, the banishment of evil spirits, and renewal. In Valencia, it is traditional to jump over the fire up to seven times 2. Fire rituals — Burning things, symbolizing past problems, to start with a clean slate. 3. Purification by water — After midnight, it is customary to swim in the sea or jump over the waves people believe that the water grants health and good luck for the next year 4. Runic rituals — Lighting candles, writing wishes on paper and burning them in the bonfire, bathing — to attract good luck and protection. Valencian tradition – The main action takes place on the beaches Malvarrosa and El Cabanyal: bonfires, picnics, music, and swimming. The city organizes special free firewood distribution points and increases the presence of police, lifeguards, and medics Modern status of the holiday: The night of June 23rd to 24th is a public holiday (a regional holiday in Valencia and Catalonia). It is the brightest event of the year: a night of fire, lanterns, music, and fun by the sea. Summary of the La Noche de San Juan festival: Symbolism: fire purifies, water frees from the past, rituals attract good luck. Heritage: ancient pagan rites adapted to Christianity; next I will tell you about the fire festival of Fallas (in Spanish: Las Fallas) — one of the most spectacular and recognizable festivals in Spain, held annually in the city of Valencia. 🔥 What is Fallas (Las Fallas de Valencia)? Las Fallas is an annual festival that combines: street art, fireworks, noisy parades, and fire as a symbol of purification. It takes place every March, reaching its peak from March 15th to 19th, in honor of Saint Joseph (San José) — the patron saint of carpenters. 🗓 History of the festival: It arose from a craft tradition: on the eve of spring, Valencian carpenters would burn wooden structures (parots) — candlesticks that were no longer needed after the winter. Over time, they began to decorate them with clothing, masks, and make them look like people — thus the ninots (dolls) appeared. In the 18th–19th centuries, the tradition grew into a massive festival, including satire, music, and pyrotechnics. In the 20th century, Fallas became an important part of Valencian identity and were officially recognized as a cultural heritage. 🎭 What happens at Fallas: 1. Ninots — giant dolls Sculptural compositions up to 15–20 meters high made of papier-mâché, wood, and styrofoam. Often satirical: they depict politicians, stars, and current topics. 2. Mascletàs — explosive shows Every day at 2:00 PM in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento from March 1st to 19th. These are not fireworks in the classic sense, but rhythmic explosions of firecrackers, creating a powerful sound effect. 3. Ofrenda de Flores — the offering of flowers to the Virgin of the Forsaken On March 17–18, thousands of people in traditional costumes bring flowers to a 15-meter statue of the Virgin Mary. 4. La Nit del Foc — The Night of Fire On the night of March 18th — the most large-scale firework display in the city. 5. La Cremà — the culmination On March 19th, between 10:00 PM and midnight, all the figures are burned — except for one, which is chosen by vote and sent to a museum. In 2016, UNESCO included Fallas in the list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It is not just a tourist show, but a profound ritual of renewal, purification, and self-expression through art. Now I will tell you about another important festival The festival in honor of the Virgin of the Forsaken (Virgen de los Desamparados) in Valencian — Mare de Déu dels Desamparats, the main patron saint of Valencia: 📖 Origins and symbolism: The name means “Virgin of the Forsaken,” she is revered as the protector of the sick, poor, and homeless. The cult originated in 1409, when the monk Joan Gilabert spoke out against the cruel treatment of the mentally ill, and a hospital for the poor and the “insane” was founded The image of the Virgin appeared “by the blessing of angels” in 1414, according to legend In 1414, a brotherhood was established to support the image and charity. The temple and the hospital were united in 1512, after which the institution became a more significant realm of charity In 1921–23, Pope Benedict XV authorized the coronation of the image, which took place on May 12, 1923, in the presence of the royal family. The main celebration takes place annually on the second Sunday of May (officially – the Saturday before). The program includes: Missa de Descoberta — “morning discovery mass” (~ 5:00 AM) Missa d’Infants — children’s mass (~ 8:00 AM) Trasllat — solemn procession (~ 10:30 AM) Missa Pontifical — key ceremony in the cathedral (~ 12:00 PM) Procesión General — evening procession with a luxurious parade of flowers (~ 5:30 PM) Dansà — traditional dances in the square on the night before and on the day of the festival From the Tuesday after the festival — Ronda a la Verge — a choir and orchestra concert in the Plaza de la Virgen 🌺 The Solemn Flower Moment 🌺 The square and the basilica’s facade are decorated with floral tapestries of roses and garden flowers, symbolizing gratitude and devotion. During the procession, thousands of rose petals are showered upon the image of the saint. This is the most significant religious festival after Fallas. It represents the culmination of local spiritual and cultural identity. The Virgin of the Forsaken is called the “Generalissima of the Army” and the “eternal mayor” of Valencia — she is given military honors The Festival of the Virgin of the Forsaken is the spiritual heart of Valencia 🎉 From its charitable beginnings in the 15th century to the festive procession of today — this event unites faith, culture, music, flowers, and traditions in one solemn day. and now we are entering the City Hall Square (Plaza del Ayuntamiento) Plaza del Ayuntamiento is the main city square of Valencia and one of the most iconic places in the city. It brings together important administrative, architectural, and cultural landmarks. 🏛 What is the Plaza del Ayuntamiento? The name translates as “City Hall Square” — because the city administration building (Ayuntamiento de Valencia) is located here. It is the central square of Valencia, an important transport, tourist, and cultural hub. The square is located in the Sant Francesc district — in the very heart of the old city (Ciutat Vella). Originally, it was a series of narrow streets and small squares. In the early 20th century, as part of the city’s modernization, a redevelopment was carried out (1910s–1930s): demolition of old quarters, opening up a direct space. It acquired its final appearance in the 1930s, with the construction of the current buildings, the fountain, and the symmetrical layout. 📍 What is on the square: 🏛 Ayuntamiento de Valencia (City Hall) The main city administration. Built between 1758 and 1930. 🕰 Tourist information center, located in the city hall building 🏤 Palacio de Correos y Telégrafos The elegant post office building (1915–1922), Modernist style with a dome ⛲ Central fountain and garden A circular fountain and flower arrangements in the center 🏢 Historic hotels and residential buildings Style of the buildings: Modernism, Art Deco, and Neoclassicism (early 20th century) 📞 Telefónica Building Valencia’s first skyscraper, 1928. 🎆 Venue for the Mascletàs Noisy fireworks in March during the Fallas festival 🎄 Christmas tree, market, stage The center of holiday festivities in winter 🌟 What happens here: 🎉 Festivals: key events of the Fallas take place here — including the daily Mascletàs at 2:00 PM from March 1st to 19th. 🕊 Rallies, parades, and processions: political, cultural, and religious events. 🌙 The nighttime illumination of the buildings creates a stunning view — especially on holidays. 📸 Tourists and locals take photos in front of the fountain and the main buildings. 📌 Facts and style: Style of the buildings: Modernism, Art Deco, Neoclassicism The square is paved with tiles, with a traffic circle (partially a pedestrian zone) The route for many tourist tours and free city tours passes through here. You can get here by metro (Xàtiva or Colón stations), bus, or on foot. Around it are numerous cafes, souvenir shops, and shopping streets. The Plaza del Ayuntamiento is the heart of Valencia, where history, architecture, and city life merge into one. Here you can feel the scale of the city and its dynamism, especially during Fallas, when the square transforms into a theater of fire and light. It’s very beautiful here, definitely worth a walk Well, let’s continue on our way Here we are approaching the Plaza de Toros de Valencia – the main arena for bullfights and cultural events in the city Plaza de Toros de Valencia (Valencian: Plaça de Bous de València) — a neoclassical bullfighting amphitheater, built between 1850 and 1859 by the architect Sebastián Monleón Estellés On the outside, the building resembles the Colosseum: a 48-sided facade, 384 arches, an arena diameter of ~52 m, and a capacity of approximately 12,500–13,000 spectators and now we are looking at the Train Station “North” (Estación del Norte) and not far from the Plaza del Ayuntamiento and now we are approaching the Mercado Central de Valencia this is not just a market, but a true gastronomic temple and an architectural masterpiece in the historic center of the city. 🗓 History: Trading has been conducted on this site since the Middle Ages – first as street stalls, then in 1839 the first covered market (Mercado Nuevo) appeared here In 1910, the city hall announced a competition for a new project; the architects Alejandro Soler March and Francesc Guardia Vial won Construction started in 1914, and in 1928 the Modernist-style market was ceremoniously opened, becoming the largest covered market in Europe (~8,000 m², about 300 stalls). 🏛 Architecture of the Mercado Central Style: Valencian Modernisme (Art Nouveau), combining iron, glass, and ceramics Inside — towering vaults, domes up to 30 m high, decorative stained glass windows and traditional ceramic motifs 🍊 What’s inside A labyrinth of about 250–300 stalls: fruits, vegetables, meat, seafood, cheeses, spices. There are also gourmet labs, restaurants, and gastronomic counters with local delicacies. 🌟 Why should you visit the Mercado Central? Gastronomic atmosphere: a market for locals with the highest quality products Architectural gem: one of the best achievements of Modernist architecture in Europe Historical context: a place of trade from the 13th century to the present day Central location: a convenient start/finish for walking routes through the old town. Mercado Central is a symbol of Valencian gastronomy, an architectural monument of the 20th century, a living center of public and commercial life. Near the Mercado Central, you can find: 🏛 1. La Lonja de la Seda (The Silk Exchange) 📍 Right across from the main entrance to the market (a 30-second walk) A 15th-century Gothic building, a UNESCO World Heritage site A former place for trade deals — a symbol of Valencia’s golden age ⛪ 2. Iglesia de los Santos Juanes, 📍 To the right of the market A Catholic church with a Baroque facade, built on the site of an old mosque Decorated with frescoes and sculptures with symbols of John the Baptist and John the Evangelist 🛍 3. Plaza del Mercado / Plaza de la Ciudad de Brujas, 📍 The square in front of the market Used as a pedestrian zone, with cafes and street musicians A popular meeting place and the start of tourist routes 🏙 4. Streets of the old town (El Mercat / Ciutat Vella), 📍 Right behind the market and the exchange Narrow streets with souvenir shops, cafes, and gastro bars 🏤 5. Museo de la Seda (Silk Museum), 📍 A 5-minute walk away The historic silk guild of Valencia (Colegio del Arte Mayor de la Seda) And now we are approaching the Serranos Towers 🏰 History of the Serranos Towers (Torres de Serranos) The Serranos Towers are one of the most important symbols of Valencia and its old city wall. ⏳ Construction and architecture of the Towers: Erected in the period 1392–1398, by order of King John I, the towers were built by master Pere Balaguer — in the Valencian Gothic style Two pentagonal towers about 33 m high, connected by a central arch, served as the main northern gates of the city. The towers protected the entrance with their thematic southern and northern facades: massive walls and decorative cladding of Anxinet limestone 🛡 Functions in the Middle Ages: 1. Defense and access control A fortified checkpoint — during sieges, the towers served to protect the entrance to the city 2. Ceremonial entrances The towers adorned the entry routes into the city for kings, ambassadors, and important guests. ⚖️ Change of roles: prison and warehouse From 1586–1887, the towers were used as an aristocratic prison for nobles; this saved them from demolition along with the city wall During the Civil War in 1936–1938, art treasures from the Prado were stored in the towers, protected by a concrete slab, rice husks, and earth. 🛠 Restorations and modern times: In 1865, the walls were demolished, but the towers remained. From 1871 to 1914, a restoration was carried out (by José Aixá and the Royal Academy of Fine Arts). In 2000, the stone facade was cleaned, which restored the towers to their original appearance. 🎉 Modern life of the towers: The towers are open to visitors: they offer panoramic views of the old town and the Turia Park; Every year, the Crida is held here — the official opening of Fallas on the last Sunday of February The towers are included in the routes of walking and cycling tours of Valencia. ✅ Summary: The Serranos Towers are: medieval city gates from 1392–1398. a defensive structure and a place of triumphal entries a prison for nobles; a sanctuary for art a cultural heritage site and a symbol of Valencia. And now, we continue our walk through the city of Valencia and now we are heading to our last location through the old town, cozy streets, through the Turia Park to the City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias) we continue our walking tour along the Turia Park and I will tell you the history of the Turia Park — one of the symbols of Valencia’s sustainable development 🌊 From a river — to a park In 1957, the Turia River overflowed, flooding almost three-quarters of the city and taking more than 60 lives From 1958–1969, according to the Plan Sur, the riverbed was diverted around the city Initially, there were plans to build a highway along the old riverbed, but residents demanded a green park — with the slogan “El llit del Túria és nostre i el volem verd” 🌳 Creation of the park: The park was officially opened in 1986, when citizens handed over the old riverbed to the city, and a massive green transformation began. The architect Ricardo Bofill designed the central zones, including fountains, palm avenues, and citrus groves The space was divided into 12–18 zones, connected by pedestrian and bicycle paths, sports fields, and playgrounds 🏞 What the Park is like today: Length: 7–10 km through the city center, area — about 136 hectares (up to 160 hectares after completion of the final sections). It is the largest urban park in Spain, included in the model of sustainable urbanism The park has: running/cycling tracks, sports fields (soccer, rugby), playgrounds, including Gulliver Park, yoga and relaxation zones, bridges: both historic (Puente de la Trinidad) and modern ones by Calatrava and Bofill 🏛 Important sites inside: The City of Arts and Sciences — at the eastern end of the park, a unique architectural space. Bioparc and Gulliver Park — popular areas for family leisure. 🌱 Significance for Valencia: It is a green “belt” connecting the west and east of the city, creating an ecological connection. The park serves as a place for sports, recreation, and mass events — with up to 1.3 million visits per year. It was a key part of Valencia’s journey to the title of European Green Capital 2024 Turia Park is not just a place for walks, it is a successful example of a citizen’s pride initiative against a highway; the city’s adaptation to climate threats; an ecological and cultural city-ark, connecting history, sports, and architectural modernity. Next, we will walk along the Turia Park to the City of Arts and Sciences We have reached the City of Arts and Sciences Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias 🏗 About the history and architecture: The project began in the late 1980s as part of a plan to redevelop the former Turia riverbed, after the 1957 flood. Here, the green axis of the Turia was adapted into a cultural and scientific zone The initial project was led by Antonio Ten Ros, commissioned by the Generalitat Valenciana, with the concept of a city of science and communications In the mid-1990s, the famous Valencian architect-engineer Santiago Calatrava was brought in for the implementation and the architect Félix Candela (for the oceanographic part) 🏛 Calatrava’s works in the complex: L’Hemisfèric (1998) — the “human eye,” a planetarium and IMAX cinema, symbolizing the “eye of knowledge” Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe (2000) — a science museum with architecture resembling a whale’s skeleton L’Umbracle (2001) — a green gallery-sculptural promenade with 109 arches and local flora Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía (2005) — an opera house-“floating feather” with a covered landscape Assut de l’Or Bridge (2008) — a cable-stayed bridge with a curved 125 m high pylon, nicknamed the “harp” L’Àgora (2009) — a covered elliptical hall for up to 6,000 people, a multifunctional space Montolivet Bridge (2007) — a bridge over the Turia Park (jointly with Ordóñez), organically continues the architectural line of the complex. At the end of our walking tour, we will stroll through L’Umbracle – a botanical gallery and an architectural symbol Designed by the architect Santiago Calatrava. Opened in 2001 It is an open-air gallery, about 320 m long and 60 m wide. It consists of 55 fixed and 54 floating arches made of white steel (109 in total), creating the effect of a “floating frame.” The structure resembles a futuristic pergola or a light canopy, through which sunlight passes, creating a play of light and shadow. Inside — an exhibition of Mediterranean and tropical flora: palm trees, orange trees, lavender, rosemary, bougainvillea A sculpture garden (Jardín de las Esculturas) is integrated, where works of contemporary art are displayed. The space is designed with paths, benches, and rest areas — ideal for a walk. During the warmer months, a nighttime lounge club and terrace (L’Umbracle Terraza) operates in part of the gallery — one of the most popular evening spots in Valencia. L’Umbracle is a fusion of architecture, nature, and art. It serves a decorative, aesthetic, and climatic function simultaneously — it filters light, creates shade and coolness, and adorns the area around the museum and planetarium. A very pleasant place, I definitely recommend visiting And with that, I’ll say goodbye, thank you for being with me Subscribe, like, and see you next time

Welcome to one of the brightest and sunniest cities in Spain 🇪🇸 Valencia! In this video, we’re taking you on a walking journey through the historic center and the city’s modern landmarks to showcase its main attractions, the vibrant street atmosphere, and stunning architectural masterpieces.

🗺 In this video, you’ll see:
⛪ Plaça de la Verge — one of the oldest squares in the city, surrounded by historic buildings and a fountain symbolizing the eight rivers.
🏰 Valencia Cathedral and El Miguelete Tower — the legendary home of the Holy Grail.
🕊 Basilica of Our Lady of the Forsaken — the spiritual heart of the city.
🏛 The Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda) — a Gothic masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage site.
🛍 Central Market (Mercado Central) — a gastronomic treasure and a modernist architectural gem.
🧱 Torres de Serranos — medieval city gates offering views over the old town.
🌳 Turia Park — the city’s green axis, created in the former riverbed.
🌉 City of Arts and Sciences — a futuristic complex designed by architect Santiago Calatrava.