The Institut Valenciá d’Art Modern or the IVAM is housed in two buildings, and it is an absolute delight for those who love pop and abstract artwork. The permanent collections of several Spanish artists, as well as exquite traveling collections from many famous people, are housed in the Centro Julio González section. This section of the museum was dedicated in 1989 and features the sculptures of the namesake, as well as the paintings of Ignacio Pinazo.

The Sala de la Muralla is also part of this museum, and is located underground in an area that was the footings for medieval sections of Valencia. In fact, this wall is part of the attraction to the building. This portion of the museum also hosts visiting exhibits.

The other building that is part of the IVAM is the Centro del Carmen. This used to be home to a convent in the 13th century, which is interesting since this is a contemporary art facility. The majority of the art here is done by younger artists, as well as world famous artists. Visiting works of art are also displayed here. The Institut also features a photographic and written works library, space for education offerings, lectures and workshops, a café, and a gift shop.

The Museum of the 19th Century is a short-term exhibition center dedicated to 19th century life, developments, and the events of Spain during this period. The museum contains paintings, drawings, lithographs, sculptures and gobelin tapestries. This is an historical museum devoted to the understanding of Spanish culture and history.

The Almudin was built in the 16th century and has been used for various functions since that time. The original purpose was to store wheat. This building also served as a distribution center for the all important grain grown in the area. There are murals on the inside of the building depicting harvests of wheat being brought into town.

When entering the location, it is easy to see that there was once an open air courtyard that has since been covered over to make the internal area larger. The archways in the building are just lovely and the murals over them are well worth coming to see. It is really these murals that are the drawing point of this old building. In fact, this structure is a national historic monument, as well as an artistic monument.

The space is now used to house temporary exhibits of archeology and art. In fact, in the recent past, this was the home to the Paleontology Museum. Its location is Plaza de San Luis Beltrán, 1 in Valencia. Admission is free and it is open daily except for Mondays. Check the schedule for open hours as they vary, and the building is closed during the noontime.

This exhibition displays non-conformist work in contrast to the mainstream Spanish art scene. The gallery brings together the best contemporary pieces in an effort to conceptualize a new vision in the Spanish visual arts.

Centro de Artesania is a craft center. Its wonderful collection of local ceramics will melt your heart. The Centro de Artesania houses a great range of local arts and crafts, including paintings and jewelery. There are many workshops and displays that take place here throughout the year, and best of all, admission is free.

Centro de Arte Contemporaneo Alba Cabrera is a modern museum/exhibition containing paintings, graphic art, sculptures, books, jewels, and contemporary works of art. Everything here is handmade. Art objects are also bought and sold here.

The Museo Taurino is a small but impressive museum dedicated to bullfighting. The collection has been augmented over the years and is one of the most impressive in Spain. The collection includes details about the uniforms of the matadors, as well as details about the extensive training required.

Additionally, there are several engravings, paintings, and etchings covering all aspects of bull fighting. There is also a bronze bull statue and several mounted heads. A couple of centuries of bullfighting history are chronicled here. It is also a good way to see the bullfighting ring without an actual fight in progress. It is part of the tour when going to the museum, and highlights include discussions of how the fights are actually staged.

A library is also available for those who would like to get into the history more in depth. Films are also shown to augment the history of the sport. The museum is located at pasaje Doctor Serra, 10. The entrance to the museum is a little understated in comparison to the size of the stadium next door. The hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 8 pm.