[World Heritage Site] Introducing La Lonja de la Seda | What is this beautiful tourist spot?

Spain ranks third in the world for the number of World Heritage Sites, following Italy and China. Valencia, the third-largest city in Spain, is known as a place that once flourished through the trade of silk products.

The World Heritage Site featured in this article, La Lonja de la Seda of Valencia, is a building that was used in the 15th century—Valencia’s golden age—as a marketplace where merchants from all over Europe gathered to trade silk products.

This magnificent Gothic-style building looks just like a castle. In this article, we will introduce the charm and highlights of Spain’s World Heritage Site, La Lonja de la Seda of Valencia! Be sure to use this as a reference for your travels in Spain and your World Heritage tours across Europe.

What is La Lonja de la Seda of Valencia?

Located in the heart of Valencia’s old town, La Lonja de la Seda was designated a World Heritage Site in 1996. In Spanish, La Lonja de la Seda means "Silk Exchange." Construction of the building took place between 1482 and 1498, with its final completion recorded in 1548.

This magnificent Gothic-style building, spanning over 2,000 square meters, resembles a castle and leaves visitors in awe. While its exterior is impressive, stepping inside reveals an even more breathtaking architectural masterpiece.

Additionally, right in front of La Lonja de la Seda is the Central Market, the largest market in Valencia, making it an ideal spot to visit together.

How to access La Lonja de la Seda of Valencia

The most convenient way to travel from Japan to Valencia, Spain, is by taking a direct flight to Madrid, which takes approximately 14.5 hours.

From Madrid, the nearest station to La Lonja de la Seda can be reached via high-speed rail in about 3 to 3.5 hours, making it a convenient option for visitors.

Recommended highlights of La Lonja de la Seda

The Hall of Contracts

Upon entering La Lonja de la Seda, visitors are greeted by a grand hall. This vast space is known as the "Hall of Contracts" or the "Column Hall." As the name suggests, this hall is characterized by its distinctive spiral-shaped columns.

This spacious hall was where actual silk trade agreements were conducted. The theme of the hall is "paradise," and its unique, eye-catching columns stretching up to the ceiling are designed to resemble palm trees. Sunlight streaming through the large windows enhances the brilliance of the marble floor. Imagine how luxurious it must have been for merchants to conduct their silk trade in such a stunning setting.

The Consulate of the Sea Hall

Stepping outside the Hall of Contracts, visitors will find a courtyard with flourishing orange trees. There are benches available, making it a perfect place for a short break. Beyond the courtyard and up a flight of stairs lies the "Consulate of the Sea Hall."

Many visitors to La Lonja de la Seda are satisfied with just exploring the Hall of Contracts and move on to their next destination. However, it is highly recommended to visit the second floor as well.

The Consulate of the Sea Hall was home to the Consulate of the Sea Tribunal, which oversaw commercial and maritime disputes in Valencia. The highlight of this hall is undoubtedly its spectacular wooden ceiling.

Created by Juan del Poyo, this ceiling was designed with a gold-accented theme. Work on the ceiling began in 1418 and was completed in 1455, making it a masterpiece well worth seeing!

◎ Summary

What did you think? In this article, we introduced the highlights of La Lonja de la Seda of Valencia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Spain.

While La Lonja de la Seda served as a silk exchange reflecting Valencia's rich history, its elegant and intricate Gothic architecture—both inside and out—will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.

Spain is home to numerous other World Heritage Sites, so be sure to plan your trip to include other remarkable landmarks as well!

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[World Heritage Site] Introducing La Lonja de la Seda | What is this beautiful tourist spot?