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About Valencia
Valencia, located on Spain’s east coast on the banks of the Turin River, is the country’s third largest city.
It is a bustling and prosperous port city and the capital of a fertile agricultural area, a thriving industrial center with metal, furniture, and paper factories, and a large export hub for citrus fruits, vegetables, and wine. It is also home to some of Spain’s best beaches and provides a unique mix of culture, history, and fun in the sun.
Valencia is a city that has everything and seamlessly blends modern and traditional cultural experiences- spectacular and diverse architecture, ancient buildings, squares, palaces, picturesque alleys, markets, cafes, bars, vintage shops, and magic corners. While its old town is full of historic landmarks, the modern city which surrounds it has magnificent boulevards and elegant shopping centers.
The architecturally futuristic complex, the City of Science and Arts, is located in the center of the city and houses the most impressive structures in Valencia, including the opera house, science museum, and planetarium. The complex was designed by Santiago Calatrava, a native of Valencia, and Felix Candela from Madrid.
The Old Town of Valencia (Ciutat Vella) is a maze of picturesque alleys, narrow pedestrian streets studded with statues, palaces, churches, and ancient towers, many of which are relics of the city’s history. Valencia was founded as a Roman colony in 138 BC and was ruled by the Muslims starting in the 8th century. The Christians conquered the area in the 13th century, and the city became the capital of the Kingdom of Valencia.
Valencia’s Town Hall Square, the beautiful Plaza del Ayuntamiento, is a vibrant open center lined with statues, fountains, and carpets of flowers. The 18th century Town Hall building, for which the square is named, is an impressive structure which houses a local history museum. Originally serving as a monastery, this 18th century town hall is an impressive example of traditional Spanish architecture. The Palacio de las Comunicaciones (Palace of Communications) is Valencia’s historic mail service building.
Located near the square is the famous Central Market (Mercado Central), a modern building with a spectacular architectural design that combines stone, metal, and glass. A huge market with over 1000 stalls, this is a foodie’s paradise which offers a wide assortment of traditional Valencian cuisine, fresh seafood, and local produce.
The Fallas Festival is Valencia’s most famous festival, and it takes place annually in mid-March, featuring massive sculptures, parades, and fireworks. During the festival, several hundred 50-foot sculptures (“fallas”) made of paper, usually designed as satirical figures of local politicians and celebrities, are burned in huge bonfires in the squares.
The Valencia Cathedral, dating back to the 14th-15th centuries, combines Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles, and the Miguelete Tower, the bell tower of the cathedral, offers a wonderful view of the city extending out to the sea.
The Lonja de la Seda (the Silk Exchanges) dates back to the 15th century and is built in late Gothic style with a magnificent colonnaded hall. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is used today for exhibitions and events.
Valencia’s main rain station, called Estacio Nord, is located in the center of the Old Town. It is an impressive building, an outstanding example of the Valencian Art Nouveau, with mosaics and unusual wall paintings – as well as a major transport hub in the city.
For nature lovers, don’t miss Oceanografic, Europe’s largest marine park, and Albufera Natural Park, a beautiful nature reserve located close to Valencia, with boat tours of the wildlife.
All this, and kilometers of lively, golden sand bathing beaches, are what make Valencia one of Spain's holiday destinations.
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Valencia
Valencia, located on Spain’s east coast on the banks of the Turin River, is the country’s third largest city.
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Looking for some interesting things to do in Valencia? Here are some recommended attractions and sights for you.
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Attractions in Valencia
- City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia
- North Station, Valencia
- Old Town, Valencia
- National Museum of Ceramics and Decorative Arts, Vale
- Llotja de la Seda, Valencia
- Museum of Fine Arts, Valencia
- Beach, Valencia
- Oceanografic, Valencia
- Valencia Cathedral
Valencia City voice guide
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Voice guided walking tours give you the freedom to explore at your own pace. You can start walking at any time and stop whenever and wherever you like, for as long as you like. For RoutePerfect customers with our partner VoiceMap's mobile app.
Between Two Gates: A Valencia Walking Tour from Torres de Serranos to de Quart
In Love With Valencia: A Tour of Its Landmarks, Markets and Art
Valencia To Go: A Guide to Creating the Perfect Picnic
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