Valencia Cathedral

Neslted on Plaza de la Reina, Valencia Cathedral (the Metropolitan Cathedral–Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady of Valencia / Església Catedral-Basílica Metropolitana de l’Assumpció de la Mare de Déu de València) is undoubtedly one of the most famous tourist attractions in the city! In addition to its rich architecture, the cathedral is also famous for housing the Holy Chalice, recognized by the Vatican as… the one and only Holy Grail!

Follow the guide!

Brief history of Valencia Cathedral

Built in the 13^th century, following the Reconquista – the Christian reconquest – of Valencia, Valencia Cathedral stands on the exact site of an old mosque (which was itself built on the site of an old Visigothic cathedral).

The simplicity of the original building, Romanesque in style, testifies to the urgency with which the cathedral was built. The Church wanted to destroy the mosque, which represented Muslim domination in Valencia, to build in its stead a cathedral which would symbolize the return of Valencia into Christian hands.

Over the following centuries, Valencia Cathedral was transformed and enlarged countless times. This explains why the cathedral’s architectural style incorporates eclectic elements, ranging from Valencian Gothic to neo-classicism, Baroque or even the Renaissance style.

Visiting Valencia Cathedral

With its rich architecture and its long history, Valencia Cathedral will no doubt delight visitors exploring the city. Among the cathedral’s treasures, be sure to have a look at the Apostles’ Gate, the Palau Gate, the Holy Chalice, the frescoes by Paolo da San Leocadio and Francesco Pagano, as well as the Miguelete Tower and the Sacred Art Museum.

👉 The Apostles’ Gate: built in the 14^th century, the Apostles’ Gate, baroque in style, is undoubtedly one of the cathedral’s highlights.

👉 the Palau Gate: Romanesque in style, the Palau Gate is the oldest gate in Valencia’s Cathedral.

👉 The Holy Chalice: housed in a chapel of the cathedral, this agate chalice decorated with Arabic inscriptions is said to be the one and only Holy Grail, from which Jesus and his twelve disciples drank during the Last Supper. According to legend, the chalice was hidden in a safe place by Saint Lawrence to prevent it from falling into the hands of the Roman Emperor Valerian, who was then persecuting Christians.

👉 The frescoes by Paolo da San Leocadio and Francesco Pagano: above the high altar, don’t miss the Renaissance frescoes attributed to the artists Paolo da San Leocadio and Francesco Pagano. These famous 15^th century artworks represent twelve angels playing music.

👉 The Miguelete Tower (or Micalet ), the bell tower of the cathedral: built between the 14^th and 15^th centuries, the Miguelete Tower is a 50-meter high tower dominating the surroundings of the cathedral and offering a breathtaking view of Valencia. But be prepared: you’ll have to climb the 207 (steep) steps to reach the top of the tower.

👉 The Sacred Art Museum of Valencia Cathedral: the cathedral comprises a small museum exhibiting religious artworks including paintings by the famous Spanish artists Maella and Goya.

Access

Getting to Valencia Cathedral

To get to Valencia Cathedral, head for the famous Plaza de la Reina, a 5-minute walk from the Lonja de la Seda and the Mercado Central.

The nearest public transports are:

• Metro: Colón and Alameda stations / 10-15 minutes walk
• Bus: the closest stops are Encarnació – Guillem de Castro, Editor Manuel Aguilar – Guillem Sorolla, Avinguda Del Baró De Càrcer, Plaça de l’Ajuntament – Mercat Central – Llotja

👉 For information, the Valencia Tourist Card includes unlimited access to public transport. To get around Valencia, you can also opt for a hop-on hop-off bus tour or rent bikes.

Opening hours of Valencia Cathedral

Valencia Cathedral is open for visits from Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. and on Sundays and public holidays from 2 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. In April, May and September, the cathedral exceptionally closes at 5:30 p.m. on weekends.

The ticket office closes 45 minutes before the cathedral closes.

Admission

Entrance tickets for the cathedral are €8 full price and €5.50 reduced price (children under 12, pensioners and visitors with disabilities)