Valencia Cathedral is a history book in stone. Work began in 1262, on the site of the city’s main mosque, and went on for centuries – which is why its three doors are in three different styles: Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque.
What to see
The Holy Chalice
In a Gothic chapel, the cathedral keeps an agate cup venerated as the Holy Grail, the chalice of the Last Supper according to tradition. It has been here since the 15th century.
The Micalet
The octagonal Gothic bell tower, the Micalet, can be climbed by a narrow spiral staircase of about 200 steps. From the top, the whole city spreads out to the sea.
The doors and squares
The Baroque main door faces the Plaza de la Reina; the Gothic Apostles’ Door opens onto the Plaza de la Virgen, the most beautiful square in Valencia.
The Water Tribunal
Every Thursday at noon, in front of the Apostles’ Door, the farmers’ Tribunal de las Aguas meets to settle disputes over irrigation water – a tradition of more than a thousand years, listed by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage.
Tips
- Climb the Micalet early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best light.
- Be at the Apostles’ Door before noon on Thursday to watch the Water Tribunal.
- Dress respectfully: it is a place of worship.
