About La Lonja
La Lonja de la Seda de Valencia is a 15th-century building located in the centre of Valencia's old town. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best examples of Gothic architecture in Europe. The building was designed by Pere Compte, a master builder from Valencia, and features a courtyard surrounded by magnificent arcades and galleries.
Inside, the Sala de Contratacion roof is supported by 48 slender columns and is one of the most impressive parts of the building. La Lonja was used as a centre of commerce, where merchants gathered to negotiate trade deals and to sell and buy silk, a very valuable commodity in the Middle Ages.
Today, the La Lonja is a museum, displaying a number of important artworks. The building also hosts cultural events throughout the year, including concerts and exhibitions. Visitors can explore the building and appreciate its beautiful architecture, as well as learn about its fascinating history. A visit to La Lonja is a must for anyone looking to experience the unique culture of Valencia.
La Lonja Highlights
• La Lonja is a 15th-century Gothic building in Valencia, Spain, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• It was built as a merchant’s exchange to facilitate international trade and stands as a symbol of Valencia’s maritime history
• Its main attraction is the Sala de Contratacion, or Trading Hall, which is a large vaulted room lined with columns and decorated with intricate carvings
• The Hall of Columns, or Sala de los Pilares, is located adjacent to the Trading Hall and is where merchants would conduct business
• The Silk Exchange, or La Lonja de la Seda, is the most renowned part of the building and was used to store and trade the valuable commodity
• The building’s remarkable architecture is a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Mudéjar styles, and features ornate stained-glass windows, pointed arches, and Gothic vaulted ceilings
