La Lonja de la Seda

Overview

La Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange) is a UNESCO World Heritage masterpiece of late Gothic civil architecture. Its soaring spiral columns in the Contract Hall create a stone forest that has awed visitors since 1498.

Highlights

• Contract Hall: Eight 17-metre twisted columns supporting a star-vaulted ceiling.
• Courtyard: Orange trees in the open-air Patio de los Naranjos.
• Patterned floor: The original marble floor of the trading room.

History

Built 1482–1498 to serve Valencia's thriving silk trade, the Lonja embodies the city's medieval commercial wealth. Its inscription warns: 'Merchants, enter and trade without fear.'

Visitor Tips

• Free Sundays: Free entry on Sundays and public holidays.
• Quick visit: The main hall can be seen in 15 minutes.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.