Jardines de Monforte

The Monforte Gardens are a photogenic, little-known corner of Valencia: a 19th-century neoclassical garden that looks transplanted from an Italian villa, with tightly clipped hedges, fountains, ponds and a collection of marble statues that gives it the air of a theatrical stage set. They sit right beside the Royal Gardens (Viveros), yet remain largely unknown even to many locals.

History

The garden grew out of one of the city's orchards beyond the walls. In 1849 it was bought by Juan Bautista Romero, Marquis of San Juan, who commissioned the Valencian architect Sebastián Monleón to build a small Beaux Arts palace surrounded by a geometrically laid-out neoclassical garden. It took its current name when it passed by inheritance to Joaquín Monforte. In 1941 it was declared a National Artistic Garden and, after passing into municipal hands, it was restored and opened to the public in 1973.

What to see

• The 33 marble statues scattered among hedges and box-tree galleries.
• The water-lily-shaped pond and the ornamental fountains.
• Monumental magnolias, laurels and ginkgos.
• The small palace, still used for civil weddings on certain days.

Practical tips

Entry is free. It's in the La Petxina district, a few minutes' walk from the former Turia riverbed and the Alameda promenade. Go mid-morning or in the late afternoon, when the light is softer and there are fewer people, good for photos.

Insider tip

Curiosity: the two stone lions guarding the entrance to the romantic garden were originally carved for Spain's Congress of Deputies in Madrid, but were rejected for being too small. They ended up here instead, watching over this Valencia garden. Pair your visit with our guide to free things to do in Valencia, and if you like historic gardens, check out the Botanical Garden too.