Hotels near Valencia Cathedral

Valencia Cathedral (Catedral de Santa María de Valencia) is one of the most important things to do in Valencia for anyone interested in religious history. Construction began in 1262 on the site of a former Roman temple and Moorish mosque, and continued for nearly two centuries - giving the building three distinct portals (Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque) and a layered architectural identity you can read at a glance.

The Holy Chalice Chapel houses an agate cup that the Vatican has accepted as the most credible candidate for the Holy Grail used at the Last Supper - the cathedral's long architectural history is a story in itself. Two Goya paintings hang in the San Francisco de Borja chapel. The 51m octagonal Miguelete bell tower (207 spiral steps) gives the best panoramic view over the Old Town. Mass is held daily, and the cathedral remains an active place of worship.

Pro Tip: Climb the Miguelete tower in late afternoon when the heat eases and the golden hour light hits the Old Town terracotta roofs. The Holy Chalice draws long queues at midday - go right after the 10:00 opening or after 17:00 for almost no wait.