• GoJenCalCarrTravelerEuropean Summer
    On our first day we took a tuktuk tour and first stop was what used to be the main gate to the city.
    Built in 1392. Soldiers manned the gate, plus there is a mote around it.The architecture is beautiful, with Moorish, Roman and some French influences.This gate opened on the Arab wall itself and used as an entrance to the Moorish quarter of the city.This is the view from the terrace of our airbnb. In the "Carmen" district of the city.This district is known for its street art, edgy stuff mixed with family/culture images.This is part of a mural that shows family connections- grandparent with grandchild.An example of an edgy graphic.The Central Market is the largest in Spain. We had a great time exploring it.Amazing assortment of fruits and vegetables, plus cheeses, meats, seafood, olives and more!The area is known for great seafood.Oranges are highlighted on ceiling of dome. Oranges "saved" València economy when silk trade died.1These kids were sitting on the market stairs talking about a book- so cute!The district we are in changes thru out the day with some cafes open in the am & some in the eveningThe main hall of the historic Trade CenterThis is in an old palace that now houses a ceramic museum.A miniature setting of an artist, new work vs old but it highlights the art of ceramics.Current city hall for the city.Valencia was a silk export center in the 14th century. We visited the silk museum to learn more.Evening in one of the main plazas. The fountain of Neptune highlights the importance of water.On a bike ride we went by the main beach...which was full of people on a weekday!

    City of 100 Bell Towers - Valencia

    July 6, 2024 in Spain ⋅ 🌙 25 °C

    We’ve thoroughly enjoyed the last week in Valencia. It is a beautiful, vibrant and interesting city. It doesn’t have the historical depth and amazing monuments of Sevilla but that means it also doesn’t have as many tourist. And it’s located on the coast which keeps the temperature reasonable.

    It was founded by the Roman’s and like other Spanish cities it was conquered by the Moors and French at some point in its history and you see and feel those influences around the city -architecture, food, art.

    We are staying in an Airbnb in the El Carmen district which is considered one of the most charming neighborhoods and is known for street art and vibrant nightlife. The neighborhood really changes throughout the day, some cafes open earlier in the day and other cafes, restaurants or bars only open after 7:30/8 or even later…and they tumble out into the streets changing the look of a street or plaza.

    We’ve taken a few tours, visited the major sites, rented bikes, hung out on the beach for an afternoon and spent evenings just wandering the narrow lanes. And while a big change for us we’ve adjusted to eating dinner at 8 or later.
    There are some local foods and drinks here that we’ve enjoyed, I’ll do a separate post on those.    Read more