City guides: Valencia, Spain

Valencia is the third largest city in Spain with an estimated population figure of more than 807,000 as per 2006 census. The city enjoys a Mediterranean type of climate that is characterized by dry and hot summers, winters with mild humidity and springs and autumns accompanied by frequent thunderstorms.

Architecture in Valencia

Ancient Buildings built during the Arabic and Roman times adorn the old streets of Barrio del Carmen. The Cathedral, in spite of being a glorious specimen of Gothic-style architecture, displays small touches of Roman and Baroque styles as well. The Basilica of Virgin, another splendid specimen of gothic architecture, is located beside the Cathedral. The Quart and Serrano towers, both constructed during the 15th Century, were integral parts of the city wall at one time. The City of Arts and Sciences, designed by world famous architect Santiago Calatrava is quite futuristic in design. It consists of an IMAX movie theatre, a science museum, a park dedicated to oceanography, an opera house which also doubles up as a performing arts center and other small attractions like long, picturesque walkways and restaurants for visitors. Further demonstration of modern architecture can be observed in construction of The Music Palace. The Palacio de las Artes, also symbolizing modern architectural styles, possesses multiple auditoriums for organizing musical performances, opera and plays composed by renowned dramatists.

Other tourist attractions in Valencia

The tourist attraction in Valencia is mostly handled by the enormous building complex of La Ciudad de las Artes y de las Ciencia. It also features a huge planetarium for astronomically inclined tourists. The L’Oceanografic was built with kids in mind. This place features an astounding underwater area where visitors can walk around within tunnels while sharks and a variety of sea creatures swimming in the water. The place also features a dolphinarium with regular shows. All aquariums mostly feature conditions prevalent in real world oceans. Toy boats with remote controllers are also present to entertain kids who are unimpressed by the other features. There are other attractions too, like the UNESCO-declared World Heritage site, the silk exchange (La Lonja de la Seda). It was constructed in 1498. Museu San Pío is an art museum featuring works by Spanish artists such as, Velazquez, Bosch, Goya, Morales, El Greco, Ribera, Sorolla and Murillo. The Government in Valencia uses the Palau de la Generalitat as its offices. This building was inaugurated in the 15th Century. The Mercado Central is the city market which is a good place for buying vegetables, fruits, fish and meat.

Bullfights in Valencia

Bullfight is almost the symbol of Spain to the rest of the world. The Plaza de Toros bullring in the city holds regular fights. These fights are so popular among the local citizens that tourists may actually find it difficult to get tickets.

What to buy

Valencia has only few goodies to offer to the shoppers. However, everyday item stores featuring good quality food and various kinds of wine are more prevalent. Shoppers on the lookout of these products can check out the streets of Calle Don Juan de Austria and Calle Colón, among other streets.

Text courtesy of  www.iho-ohi.org