Venice, as a city where different cultures met centuries ago, has much to offer visitors interested in experiencing exceptional religious architecture. The beauty and history of Valencia’s churches and cathedrals are comparable to the famous ones of Barcelona.
1) Iglesia del Carmen
Built in 1281 for the Order of Carmelites, along with a 15th century addition of a Gothic cloister, make the Carmen complex one of the most impressive religious buildings in Valencia. Upon seeing this church even those indifferent to religious architecture will have a change of heart.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and puroticorico
2) Cripta Arqueologica de la Carcel de San Vicente Martir
Cripta Arqueologica de la Carcel de San Vicente Martir is not only a church, but an historical landmark as well. The church contains a chapel in an archaeological excavation. It dates back to the 6th century, but most impressive is the precision of its design and that it has remained so well-preserved many ages after its construction.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and ƒ(x)= 2x+Marti^3 + β
3) Basilica de la Virgen de los Desamparados
Basilica of Our Lady of the Forsaken is a church of a rare and special beauty. Differing from the common high-vaulted construction, the atmosphere of this modestly sized church, marvelously decorated inside and out, makes visitors feel as though they are in heaven.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and puroticorico
4) La Catedral
The Cathedral of Valencia, commonly known as the "Seu" in Valencian, is the see of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Valencia. The church was consecrated in 1238 by the first bishop of Valencia Pere d'Albalat and was dedicated by order of James I the Conqueror to Saint Mary. It was built upon the mosque, which in turn had been raised in place of the former Visigothic cathedral. Gothic architecture, in its Catalan or Mediterranean version, is the predominant style of this cathedral. One of the supposed Holy Chalices, present around the world, is revered in one of this cathedral's chapels; this chalice has been defended as the true Holy Grail.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and laurenatclemson
5) Iglesia de San Juan del Hospital
This is one of the oldest churches in Valencia. With land donated by King Jaime I, this edifice was erected around 1261. In addition to its impressive age, this church also contains beautiful mural paintings and ornate decorations typical of the early Baroque style.
Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Un valencià
6) Iglesia de Santo Tomas y San Felipe Neri
This church, also known as The Congregation, was built in 1725. The central nave is divided into three parts and the church also contains various side chapels. Its warm colors and rounded shapes are characteristic of this church. In 1982, Iglesia de Santo Tomas y San Felipe Neri was declared a National Historic and Artistic Monument.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and Marta S. Gufstasson
7) Iglesia y Torre de Santa Catalina
The Santa Catalina Church and Tower was built in the early years of the 18th century. According to popular legend, the two towers are considered husband and wife. They have a delicate appearance and are rich in adornments. The church’s design is strongly influenced by the Baroque style and is a magnificent and impressive sight to behold.
Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Pelayo2
8) Iglesia de los Santos Juanes
This interesting piece of Baroque style architecture was erected in the 14th century. Because of damage inflicted by a terrible fire in 1552, the original interior mural paintings and furniture were destroyed. The church has since been reconstructed and remains a unique landmark in Valencia.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and Catedrales e Iglesias