Llotja de la Seda

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The Llotja de la Seda, also known as the Lonja de la Seda in Spanish, is a popular landmark in Valencia, Spain. This impressive Gothic building was constructed in the 15th century as one of the city’s key trading centers, and was most notably used to trade silk hence its name, which translates as the “Silk Exchange” in English. Its magnificent architectural features and its historical importance make it one of the top tourist attractions in Valencia.

History

The Llotja de la Seda was constructed between 1482 and 1533 in the late Gothic architectural style found throughout the city of Valencia. It was designed for use as a new market in the heart of Valencia, and was originally used as a trading exchange for oil, though it eventually became the city’s primary trading center and its silk exchange during the period when the city became the center of the Mediterranean silk trade. In 1996, it was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site because the site “illustrates the power and wealth of a major Mediterranean mercantile city in the 15th and 16th centuries”, which will help to ensure its future preservation for years to come.

Llotja de la Seda-004 - Llotja de la
Seda — Llotja de la Seda-004. Photo by Simon

Highlights

If you’re interested in history or architecture, you’ll certainly want to take an hour or so to visit this important landmark. Its many features include its beautiful tower, its chapel, and the garden, which is filled with orange trees.

One of the most notable areas in the Silk Exchange is the Sala de Contratación, the immense trading hall which was designed to demonstrate the city’s economic importance as a major center of trade in the Mediterranean. Its features include awe-inspiring spiral pillars and a beautiful marble floor, as well as Latin inscriptions on its walls which list the virtues that were considered essential to trade, such as honesty and justice.

Practical Information

Many Crowns -
Llotja de la Seda — Many Crowns - Llotja de la Seda. Photo by Jocelyn Kinghorn

The easiest way to reach the Llotja de la Seda is by walking or cycling since it is in the center of the city where driving can be quite difficult.

Address

Carrer de la Llotja, 2, 46001 Valencia, Spain

Opening Hours

The Llotja de la Seda is open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 until 19:00 as well as Sundays and holidays from 9:30 until 15:00.

Prices

Admission costs €2 ($2.30) for adults and €1 ($1.15) for students and seniors, with free admission on Sundays and holidays.

Nearby Landmarks

Other historic landmarks in Valencia include the nearby Valencia Cathedral and Torres de Serranos.

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Author: ehuttner. Last updated: Jun 30, 2015