Spain is culture

The Cathedral, in the Gothic style, is Valencia's largest church, and its Miguelete Tower is one of the emblems of the city.

The Cathedral was built on the site of a former mosque, and its construction began in the 13th century. However it continued to undergo a series of minor changes until the 17th century. The building features various different architectural styles, although there is a clear predominance of the Gothic style. Highlights in the church’s interior include the Chapel of the Holy Grail, the former chapterhouse with its beautiful vault with star motifs, an image of heaven with the 12 apostles and the coronation of the Virgin Mary. The numerous objects on display include particularly the relic of the Holy Grail, a goblet from the 1st century AD which, tradition has it, Jesus used to institute the Holy Eucharist. The exterior of the Cathedral features the outstanding Puerta del Palau door, the oldest in the church, in the Romanesque style with Mudejar elements; and the 15th century Door of the Apostles. It is here that the Tribunal de las Aguas (the Water Court) meets every Thursday at midday. This institution was set up by King James I of Spain in the Middle Ages and is formed by eight rural workers chosen every two years by the farmers who work Valencia fertile irrigated areas. Its objective is to administer justice in all matters to do with irrigation and the distribution of water from the Turia River, through a hearing conducted in the Valencian language, whose resolutions are final and binding. The Tribunal de las Aguas survives to this day as a model institution.

Practical information

Services
Audio guides
Guided tours

Find tourist information in the surroundings

• Accommodation nearby
• Tourist offices
• Transport and airports
• Restaurants nearby