Valencia

Valencia is the third largest city in Spain, within the autonomous community of Valencia. The city is located in the southeastern part of Spain and is a highly industrialized area. However, there are also several interesting and historic sights to see in Valencia.

Sights & Activities

At the Plaza de la Reina is the Catedral de Valencia, a structure that was completed in the 15th century. Like some of the impressive Catholic structures in the country, it is built on the site of a former mosque. Because it took more than four centuries to complete the structure, it bears a combination of Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque styles. The cathedral bears several important pieces of artworks, including those made by Goya and Palomino. The high altar is also richly decorated. On the Capilla de la Buen Muerte is a reliquary that contains the forearm of San Vicente Mártir. At the Capilla del Santo Caliz, the Holy Chalice believed to be used by Christ during the Last Supper is displayed. This particular relic is quite beautiful, set with rubies and pearls. The cathedral also bears the unfinished Torre del Miguelete, its bell tower. Visitors can climb up to the top of the structure to enjoy some fine views of Valencia.

Adjacent to the cathedral is the Basilica de la Virgen de los Desamparados.

Another interesting destination is the Paleontological Museum, housed in the old public granary called the Almudin. The establishment contains the remains of prehistoric animals collected from South America.

Valencia also boasts of a building that is included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. The La Lonja de la Seda is located at the Plaza del Mercado and used to function as the old Silk Exchange. Constructed in 1498, this Late Gothic building was built on the site of a Moorish palace. The doors and windows of the building is richly decorated and adorned. Inside, visitors will be awed at the twisted columns located within the main hall. The structure also features a tower that affords beautiful views of the city.

Along Pasaje Doctor Serra is the Museo Taurino or the Bullfighting Museum. The institution showcases the costumes worn by famous matadors, photographs, awards, and portraits. It is located close to the Plaza de Toros, considered to be one of the largest bullrings in the country.

Situated on Calle Corona is the Museo de Prehistoria y Arquelogia or the Museum of Archaeology, housed within the Beneficia Cultural Centre. It contains an extensive collection of excavated artifacts taken from all over the country.

For those interested in watching some unusual displays, a visit to the Museo Histórico Médico should not be missed. Located along the Avenida de Blasco Ibánez, it contains medical instruments that were used in the ancient times and artifacts related to the medical profession. It also presents information on natural remedies.

Visitors should also take a stroll along Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències or the City of Arts and Sciences. When the River Turia was diverted, this part of the river became dry and was converted into a stretch of beautiful parkland where several modern buildings were constructed. Adorned with small streams and pools of water, it is a popular destination for those who wish to have leisurely walks even during nighttime, where it is floodlit for romantic ambience.

Weather

The area around the city enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate, which translates to pleasant weather all year round. Valencia has plenty of sunshine, best taken advantage at the nearby beaches. Spring is mild, with occasional rain showers that never last for long. Summer is hot and dry, even during nighttime when a lot of al fresco dining and entertainment are organized. The temperature becomes more pleasant as autumn approaches. Winter has an average temperature of 10°C, still mild and sunny enough for outdoor exploration, even for a day at the beach.