Palau Ducal dels Borja (Capilla y Capilla Santa)

The Ducal Palace of the Borja is the great monumental emblem of Gandia, and inside it holds one of the most beautiful chapels in the city. The complex is closely tied to Saint Francis Borgia, fourth Duke of Gandia and later general of the Society of Jesus. Today it is run by the Jesuits and can be visited with a ticket as a monumental ensemble.

What to see

The Holy Chapel and the various oratories hold the most dazzling part of the palace. Your eye is drawn to the coffered timber ceilings, the traditional tilework and a rich decoration that blends a Baroque language with later neo-Gothic touches. Each room is worth taking slowly, looking up at the ceilings and down at the floors.

Saint Francis Borgia

Much of the appeal of the place comes from its link to Gandia's own saint, one of the great figures of the Jesuit order. The visit helps you understand how a noble palace ended up bound to the spirituality and religious heritage of the town.

Tips for your visit

• Access is by ticket to the monumental ensemble; check opening hours before you go.
• It sits in the heart of the old town, a few steps from the Collegiate Church of Santa María.
• Leave time to admire the ceilings and tiles, the most distinctive features of the route.