Torres de Serranos

The Torres de Serranos are the most monumental gateway into Valencia's old town and one of the city's emblems. Built in the late 14th century, these two polygonal towers flank what was for centuries regarded as the city's main gate, the one through which kings and ambassadors made their entrance. From the terraces you get superb views over the rooftops of the El Carmen quarter and the former bed of the Turia, now a garden.

History

They were built between 1392 and 1398 to a design by master builder Pere Balaguer, who took his cue from other Gothic gates with polygonal towers. They formed part of the medieval Christian wall, demolished in 1865; the Serranos and Quart towers were spared the wrecking ball because they were being used as a prison. Nobles and knights were held here from 1586 until 1887. During the Spanish Civil War, their walls sheltered artworks from the Prado Museum evacuated from Madrid.

What to see

• The imposing Gothic façade facing the river, military in feel.
• The open interior, with pointed arches and ribbed vaults.
• The upper terraces, with panoramas of the historic centre and the Turia gardens.

Practical tips

General admission is around €2 and it is free on Sundays and public holidays. It opens Monday to Saturday morning and afternoon, and Sunday mornings only; access to the top may be closed in rain or strong wind. It's a short walk from the Cathedral and the Silk Exchange.

Insider tip

Local tip: on the last Sunday of February the Torres de Serranos become the stage for the Crida, the proclamation that fires the starting gun for Las Fallas: the Fallera Mayor calls the city to the festival from the balcony, the façade lit up and fireworks overhead. If you're in town for it, don't miss it; if not, climb up at dusk to watch the sky turn over the river. Plan the rest with our things to do in Valencia guide.