Is it a worth the time and effort to climb the 207 steps of the Micalet tower while visiting Valencia? Considering that we’ve made the ascent well over a dozen times in the years we’ve lived here, our opinion might be biased… but you’re here on our blog, so the answer is a definitive, resounding “YES!” There’s no viewpoint in the city more iconic.
However, if you’re asking whether the view is just as good today, as it was a few years ago… the answer is unfortunately “no”. Recently authorities installed an additional fence on top of the tower, which ruins the opportunity to capture 360º degree panoramas the city. They were forced to add these additional security measures because of influencers who were taking risky photos and videos from the top. Wow, so “edgy”, thanks guys. Yet another thing which influencers have ruined for everyone. The fence installation also impacts the general aesthetic of the tower.
But even with the fence, the climb is worth your time. The view over Valencia is still phenomenal, and it’s still easy to take some amazing photos. I do wish they could find a better, less-obstructive solution to protect people, but the Micalet remains a top-tier sight in Valencia.
The tower is named for its largest bell, the “little Miguel”, which itself was named for Saint Michael. The Micalet rings every fifteen minutes, and marks the hour with low donging noises which vibrate through Valencia’s city center. This is one of the sounds we most associate with the city… I wonder how long it would take us to notice, if the rings suddenly stopped?
The tower also boasts eleven other bells, each of which has its own name. During a recent festival, we had the chance to attend a bell concert, and watched musicians pulling on a complicated web of ropes which were attached to the bells. If you like, check out this video we recorded of that concert. Most of these other bells are kept on a lower level, but you can see them on your journey up to the top of the tower.
The Micalet might offer the city’s best views, but there are a lot of other spots from which to gain unique vistas over Valencia. For example, you can go on top of the nearby Santa Catalina bell tower, or ascend the old city gates, the Torres de Serranos and Torres de Quart. And for special views over the Mercado Central, check out this unique tour of the La Lonja Tower.
From our Travel Blog.
Micalet Photos
