Climbing the tower of La Lonja (silk market) has long been at the top of our Valencia wishlist. Every time we visit La Lonja, we spend a couple minutes at the gate in front of this intriguing tower, frustrated that it’s inaccessible to visitors. But we’ve recently learned … it’s not completely inaccessible. At the end of this article, we’ll let you know how to get permission to climb the tower and get onto the roof of La Lonja for some spectacular 360º views over Valencia.
La Lonja is perhaps the most well-known and popular of Valencia’s historic buildings. With its Gothic architecture, the main hall’s palm-inspired columns which spiral up into the glorious vaulted ceiling, the unusual gargoyles, the naughty perverted creatures hidden within the designs, the dizzying floor tiles … well, you get the idea: La Lonja is an obligatory stop when visiting Valencia.
Recently, we learned that guests can register for a special tour that goes up the tower. What’s more: it’s free with your regular admission to the silk market. We booked a spot on the next open tour, and showed up a week later. When our tour guide unlocked the gate and led us to the tower, we both whispered, “Finally!!” Squeezing through the tiny door in the column, we started up the stairs, which are made entirely of stone and themselves are a masterpiece. The stairs lead to various levels, and during the ascent we got a bit dizzy while looking down through the tiny round opening in the center of the staircase.
While making our way up, we stopped in two rooms. The first had a set of extremely old tiles to look at, but was otherwise covered by protective plastic. The second room was a holding quarter for merchants who were having financial difficulties or had broken their contracts. Our tour was fascinating; the guide provided tons of information and stories we didn’t know about La Lonja, along with facts about the design and architecture.
After 142 steps, we made it on to the top of the tower, 26 meters above ground. And here, we were spoiled with one of the best views we’ve ever seen over Valencia. From this privileged position, you can see almost all the city’s big sights, such as the Torres de Quart and Serranos, the Micalet, the Santa Catalina, the surrounding buildings of the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, and the Església de Sant Joan del Mercat which is currently undergoing restoration. But the star of the show was the unbeatable view over the Mercado Central.
If you like to take this tour, get in touch with Menta. On their Instagram Account, you’ll find a phone number and an email to reserve this special tour. Just make sure to set it up at least a week prior to your visit!
From our Travel Blog.
More La Lonja Tower Photos
