Audio Guide: Valencia Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Valencia

Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city, carries a rich history that stretches back to 138 BC, when it was founded as a Roman colony for battle-tested veterans. Known then as “Valentia”, meaning “valor,” it honored the courage of its first inhabitants. The city was destroyed in 75 BC by Pompey the Great but was rebuilt within a century, eventually becoming home to Visigoths and later the Moors, who transformed the region with new crops and ingenious irrigation systems. Then, in 1238, Aragonese Christians took control, declaring Valencia the capital of their kingdom.

The 15th century marked a true Golden Age. Trade with the Iberian Peninsula, Italy, and the wider Mediterranean fueled immense growth. By the century’s end, Valencia ranked among Europe’s largest cities. A striking reminder of this prosperous era is the magnificent Silk Exchange-a Gothic structure now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The city’s historic heart is packed with highlights. The Valencia Cathedral houses what many believe to be the Holy Grail, and from the top of the Miguelete Tower, you’ll get sweeping views of the rooftops below. Nearby, Queen’s Plaza and Virgin Square offer lively spots to relax and take in the surrounding architecture. The Central Market, one of the largest in Europe, is a feast for the senses-bursting with local flavors, colors, and aromas.

Visitors are often drawn by the city’s fusion of old and new architecture. For a glimpse of medieval Valencia, head to the Serranos Towers, or lose yourself in the maze of narrow lanes where tucked-away churches and small museums tell quieter stories.

If you need a break, the Turia Garden offers a breath of fresh air. Set in a former riverbed, this expansive park winds through the city like a green ribbon.

Even a short visit to Valencia leaves a lasting impression. To maximize your visit, don your walking shoes and embark on this self-guided tour-an ideal way to experience this remarkable Spanish city, with the GPSmyCity app as your guide.