Valencia

The Cathedral is mainly of early gothic style, though some parts of it were added in later eras. Its three portals are Romanesque, gothic and baroque respectively. The main chapel, Capilla Mayor, is in baroque style, the two lateral chapels are neoclassic. The octagonal bell-tower, called Micalet or also Miguelete is the landmark of the city. From here you have a great view over the city of Valencia, Victor Hugo has counted 300 more bell-towers in the whole city (to see if this number is right could be a challenge to a patient and unstressed visitor.)
In the Capitulary you can see the Holy Chalice, of which Jesus Christ and the Apostles are said to have drunk during the Last Supper.
In the Cathedral's Museum are exposed works of Goya, Jacomart, Cellini, Paggibonsi as well as paintings of valencian school of 15th to 17th century.
Close to the catherdral there is the Basílica de la Virgen de los Desamparados, ("Mare de Deu dels Desemparats") Well worth a visit.

A church consecrated to the patroness of the city, and the Almudín, a medieval granary that is nowadays used as a museum. In the closeby church Iglesia de San Esteban are said to have been married the daughters of the legendary El Cid.
Some more interesting buildings in this area of town are the Palace of Almirantes de Aragón, the church San Juan del Hospital and the Convento de Santo Domingo.

Barrio del Carmen

This district represents like no other Valencia's way of living, if you don't know this area you don't know the city. Here you'll find numerous shops, café-theaters, bars, restaurants, flower-stands, ... it is the center of everyday life and a unique experience for the visitor. Here is our story of discovering Valencia.

A Country Boy Falls In Love With A City

What can we say about Valencia that hasn't already been said? Being a country boy at heart, it was difficult for me to get to grips with the fact that I would fall in love with a city! In fact, it was love at first sight.....

We decided to take the train from Xativa, as I didn't fancy arguing with thousands of crazy Spanish drivers, who seem to have a desire to meet their maker as soon as possible.

The train goes from Xativa every 20 minutes (even on Sundays?) and the hours journey for 6 Euros return was very pleasant, including the pìped classical music. When you arrive at Valencia station the first thing that strikes you is the beauty of the place - the train station, that is! You really have to see it for yourself.

Outside the station is the old magnificent bull ring , and a road that you have to cross to get to the main part of Valencia. The pedestrian lights actually have a timer on them, allowing you 42 seconds to cross 8 lanes of traffic before you are mown down.

We did it comfortably in 30 seconds, leaving behind 2 old ladies that had managed only half of the road in the allocated time........they say the life expectancy in Spain is the highest, unless you live in Valencia and have to cross the road.....!

When and if you reach the other side, you can take the Metro to any part of the city. or, a short walk takes you into the most beautiful part, with its street cafes where you can people watch, or browse in the numerous shops. The buildings are beyond belief, with amazing architecture, stunning facades, and statues along with ornate windows and huge doors carved of oak.

A few minutes walk will take you into the heart of the city, where you will be able to shop, eat, and while away your time. Personally, we suggest that you find the cathedral, which houses the Holy Grail. Go up into the tower, and view the whole city. then, wander around the back of the cathedral, to view the archeological dig, and walk into the square with it's European flavour, along with the statues, fountains, and street cafes.

I think the thing that struck me the most - apart from the never ending procession of slimline scantily clad young Spanish ladies - was the everyday street life. Mopeds with husband and wife and child, no crash helmets, wending their way through the street markets, beggars trying to sell lucky charms, and buskers playing violins accordions and guitars under the arches of the old cathedral- the ingredients of a life gone by literally swept me off my feet. I could have sat all day in the autumn sunshine, soaking up the atmosphere of this vibrant, coulourful city. In fact, I did. I'm saving the rest for another article!

That's what happens in a city like this. you get caught up in the 'manana' attitude, where time stands still or even goes backwards for a little while, and you begin to take stock of your own life.

Whatever you do, don't miss out on a trip to Valencia, and we'll catch up with you again soon.