Monuments in Valencia
World Heritage Site
The Silk Exchange – is considered as the jewel of European Gothic civil architecture. This was built in the 15th century and is Valencia’s excellent Gothic monument. Major portion of the silk exchange was built between 1482 and 1492. It is similar to old medieval castles that had stone walls similar to that of the fortress. It consists of four parts – The Sea consulate room, tower, room of columns and orange tree patio.
Other Monuments:
1.Quart Towers – is a 15th century Gothic tower built by Pere Bofill and is a part of an old defensive wall of medieval times. This was also used as a prison for women. There are two towers and they are cylindrical on the outside and flat behind. These towers are joined by a rectangular construction and a door is positioned there.
2.Serranos Towers – is a 14th century gateway provided in the defensive wall built during the late middle ages. This was built to guard Valencia’s busiest entry point. There are two pentagonal structures on both sides of the gateway. During the 16th century this was the prison for knights and noblemen.
3.La Exposición Bridge – is traditionally known as La Peineta which means an ornamental comb. It got its name because of its peculiar shape. The construction is a combination of aesthetics and engineering. High tensile steel has been used for constructing the bridge.
4.Regional Government Palace – is a 15th century palace built in the Renaissance period. This building is a Gothic building that was built in 1421. It is a three storey building where ground floors have rectangular windows. The main floor has 3 windows and columns and there is a gallery on the top floor. A renaissance tower was added in the 16th century.
5.Valencia Cathedral – was built in the 13th century during Gothic period. This is the largest church in Valencia and its tower – Miguelete – is considered as one of Valencia’s emblems. This was constructed on a site where there was a mosque. The church’s interior has the Chapel of the Holy Grail, Coronation of the Virgin Mary, Former chapterhouse vault and Image of heaven with the 12 apostles.
6.Plaza Redonda Square – is popular because of its shape and commercial activities. This was built in the 19th century and was designed mainly for conducting commerce. It was built circular so as to have an enclosed area. In olden days it was called ‘el clot’ meaning ‘the hole’. There are shops on the lower floor. There is an 1850 fountain in the centre.
In addition there are other monuments – Palau de la Música auditorium, San Miguel de los Reyes Monastery, Central Market, Santa Catalina Church and Tower, Los Santos Juanes Church, Estación del Norte Station, El Miguelete Tower, Virgen de los Desamparados Basilica and Old Almudín Building.