You can’t go anywhere in Valencia without seeing beautiful buildings and unique architecture - but do you know the history behind its most famous landmarks? In this blog we will take you on a virtual tour of the 4 most important historical monuments of the city, so that when you see them in real life you can forcibly show off your knowledge to your disinterested friends!

1. Plaza Redonda

The Plaza Redonda, or ironically the ‘Round Square’ in English, is a unique shopping hub that will satisfy your retail needs. It was constructed in 1840 by Salvador Escrig Melchor and is now the centre of traditional commerce - offering everything from crafts and souvenirs, to lace, embroidery and fabrics. You can access the not-so-square by entering one of the 4 streets that converge into the main open space, where you can also find several tapas bars to satisfy your hunger as you shop. Fun historical fact alert - on the ground of the plaza you will see a quote by Valencian writer Vicente Blasco Ibáñez who mentions Plaza Redonda in his novel Arroz y Tartana.

2. Plaza de Toros

If you’ve been shopping in the city centre then you’ve probably walked past Plaza de Toros - a neoclassical bullring designed by Sebastián Monleón and built between 1850 and 1860. It stands at a whopping 52 metre height and can seat up to 12,000 people, and its design was influenced by Roman architecture such as the Colosseum. The bullring is a beloved part of Valencian history as the controversial sport is seen as a symbol of patriotism and a celebration of Spanish culture. However, the plaza also has a dark history - it was used to hold prisoners during the Civil War and carry out executions by firing squad. But don’t worry - today the scariest thing you will find there is a museum!

3. El Miguelete

Back in the Ciutat Vella you will easily spot El Miguelete - the gothic-style bell tower of Valencia Cathedral. It is the oldest monument on our tour as it was constructed between 1381 and 1424 - aka a very very long time ago. With 207 steps leading up to the top of the 50m tower, you might have to prepare yourself for a demanding workout. However, when you reach the terrace at the top you will be rewarded with amazing views of the city!

4. Mercado Central

If you’re feeling a bit peckish then you’ll be happy with the final stop on our tour - the Central Market of Valencia. In the largest fresh produce market in Europe you’ll be sure to find something you like! Mercado Central began as an open air market way back in 1839, but its modernist building with stained-glass windows was built between 1914 and 1928. It covers an extensive 8000m2 and holds over 1200 stalls offering every type of food your heart desires - from fresh fruit and vegetables (especially tomatoes, beans and oranges), to meat, cheeses, spices, nuts and seafood. And if you’re too hungry to make use of the ingredients yourself, then you can head to the Central bar to grab yourself some tapas or a sandwich.

Did you learn something new from this blog? Will you make a visit to any of these wonderful historical sites? Let us know!