Plaza del Ayuntamiento, Valencia, Spain

Plaza del Ayuntamiento is one of the most important city plazas in Valencia. This well-known town square is both bold and beautiful and should be one of your must-sees if ever you’d be visiting Valencia. Don’t worry about getting lost as all the city buses stop here, you simply can’t miss it!

Bold and beautiful, Plaza del Ayuntamiento is a good spot to start off a day exploring the city, regardless of where you want to go to next – either shopping or to the Old Town. Plaza del Ayuntamiento is where you can find the City Hall as well as the magnificent Central Post Office; it is also a favorite location for events such as Fallas (March 12 to 19) – a very important carnival and procession in the city. For the Region of Valencia Day – another big public holiday; the government even has plastic chairs assembled in the square so that those who want to enjoy the festivities can comfortably watch the shows for free. Take note: these chairs can be used for free so be careful of those who would try to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists and illegally charge you for the use of the chairs.

While exploring the plaza, you will be delighted to discover Art Deco buildings and expensive properties such as posh hotels; then there are also flower vendors, pigeons, a beautiful asymmetric fountain which changes color after dark, the amazing post office, and vendors selling roasted chestnuts.

The Palau de los Correos or Edificio de Correos, was built in 1915. It was designed by architect Miguel Angel Navarro and its design is clearly eclectic – the dominant style at the time. Even if you’re not going to avail of the services of the post office, it is still worth going inside to have a look at the amazingly beautiful elliptic glass dome as well as the spiral staircases. Up to six months ago, it was still possible to a get a special permit from security to go upstairs – up to the level of the glass dome (just bring an ID or passport with you). Although when my brother moved to Valencia, he told me that people aren’t allowed upstairs anymore, but who knows? You might be lucky enough to be allowed to go upstairs – especially if you try asking them in Spanish!

Plaza del Ayuntamiento 24, Valencia 46002
Opening times:
Monday to Friday: from 08:30 to 20:30
Saturdays: from 09:30 to 14:00. Sundays closed.

escrito por neja el 2010-11-29 #lugares #plaza #landmark #spain #location #valencia #travel-tips