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One of the best things to do in the Old Quarter of Valencia is to walk along the old tiny winding souk-like streets which are a reminder of the city's old Moorish past. There are many lovely museums in Valencia and the medieval churches and amazing markets give the distinct feeling of being transported back in time. This is the real Valencia. It's not only the history, it's the thriving restaurants, cafes, bars and nightlife which are at the heart of this beautiful city.
Santa Catalina Church and Tower Plaza de Santa Catalina
Cathedral of Valencia (La Seu/Catedral) One of the best things to do in the Old Quarter of Valencia is to visit the Cathedral of Valencia which is located in Plaza de la Reina. The Cathedral of Valencia (Le Seu) has the oldest museum in the city (Sala Capitular) which contains the Holy Chalice of Valencia. This is said to be the official chalice used by Christ on the last supper - the very sacred Holy Grail.
Basílica de la Virgen de los Desamparados Plaza de la VirgenJust go through the archway attached to the Cathedral and you'll come to the Basilica of the Lady of the Forsaken which is the sanctuary of the Little Hunchback (Geperudeta). Our Lady of the Forsaken is given the name of Geperudeta because the beautiful statue of her suspended inside the church tilts slightly forward. Plaza de la Virgin is another wonderful area of the Old Quarter of Valencia.
La Lonja Not far away from the Basilica de la Virgin de la Desamparados and opposite Mercado Central is the glorious 15th century indoor market place Gothic La Lonja. Lonja de la Seda (the silk exchange), is where the silk merchants used to exchange their goods. Once you've absorbed the amazingly beautiful interior, take a look at the pretty and very cool little garden which has orange trees and a fountain. On a hot summer's day, this is another of the best things to do in the old Quarter of Valencia. Valencian Institute of Modern Art Valencian Institute of Modern Art (IVAM - Valencia Instituto Valenciano de Arte Moderno) is one of Spain's most famous Art Galleries.
Mercado Central A masterpiece of modernist architecture, covered with ceramics and colorful stained windows! This is one of the largest markets in Europe and one of the most beautiful in Spain.Mountains of fresh produce are perfectly stacked on more than 1,000 stalls. Inside and out are little tapas bars selling deliciously fresh food and stalls selling paella pans and a selection of earthenware. To get to Mercat/Mercado Central just retrace your footsteps to Plaza de la Reina, cut through two small streets called Calle Sombereria and Calle Trench, and you're there. Inside Mercado Central For those staying in an apartment or living here, one of the best things to do in the Old Quarter of Valencia is to stock up with the delicious fresh produce available from Mercado Central. With over a thousand stalls to choose from, and with so much on offer, it's hard to resist. There are juicy fruits, all kinds of vegetables and cheeses, succulent fish and the most amazing amount of hams, chickens and sausages I have ever seen. The prices are great, so why not do as we do - cook a fabulous meal at home!
Barrio del Carmen Places to Eat Cheap Flights to Valencia
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