This ancient monastery, once a feared prison, now holds a million books and countless secrets waiting to be uncovered.
Valencia's outskirts hide an impressive architectural gem: El Monasterio de San Miguel de los Reyes. This monastery is one of the finest examples of Valencian Renaissance architecture and boasts an intriguing history.
Germana de Foix, a royal femme fatale, married three times and had one final wish. She wanted to be buried beside her third husband, Fernando de Aragón, in their own convent. Fernando founded the Monastery of San Miguel specifically for her. Construction started in 1548 and took centuries.
A crypt beneath the monastery's church is believed to be the couple's burial site. Strangely, their bodies aren't in the two tombs present there.
Every St. Michael's Day, September 29th, at 10:00 exactly, sunlight pours onto the crypt floor. Legend says that Germana and Fernando are buried beneath it.
In the 19th century, the convent had various new uses: a homeless shelter, a mental hospital, a women's prison, and a public school. From 1939 to 1966, it served as a notorious prison for Franco's political opponents. The facility packed 4000 prisoners into 200 cells, each 2x2 metres.
Today, the monastery is home to the Valencian Library. Walking through the sober, vaulted corridors gives you a sense of where the monks used to live. Take the old stairs for a great patio view. You can visit the building on Saturday and Sunday. The monastery offers free guided tours every weekend at 12:00 and 13:00 without reservation.
Find your way with 106 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Jardín de Ayora in València is a lush 19th-century garden with a modernist palace, fountains, ceramic benches, and over 40 tree species.
by
Ubik café regularly organises activities. Expect art exhibitions, live music, wine tastings, a reading club, language exchanges, and creative workshops!
by
Casa Judía's variety of colours and decorations is impressive. The building is a fine example of Valencian Art Deco with neo-Egyptian influences.
by
Meet Valencia's oldest and most fascinating inhabitants—its monumental trees. Discover Titan, Skinny Rebel and the Drunk Sticks, each with a story to tell.
by
One of my fondest memories of the city during summer is sitting by their giant-red-plastic cone and cooling down while having a delicious treat.
by
Looking for a cozy pub in Benicalap? Check out JP O'Mahony’s! Come with friends to play pool or enjoy from great drinks, watch sports, and have the craic!
by
Batumi, located in Russafa district, offers authentic Georgian dishes like shashlik, khachapuri and satsivi. Enjoy the atmosphere with a taste of Georgia!
by
Esperanza Café Literario in Valencia is a cozy Russian haven with books, board games, and authentic cuisine. Ideal for a literary escape in Russafa.
by
Azotea Rooftop in Valencia offers stunning 360° views, sunset vibes, drinks, and serenity — a perfect spot to savor "la dolce vita."
by
Until March 25, 2025, immerse yourself in ancient Egypt at Bombas Gens, Valencia — VR, AI, and projections bring pharaohs and temples vividly to life.
by
Valencia’s best street art hides in El Carmen’s backstreets. As you wander the streets, the caras del agua will surprise you with their watchful eyes.
by
Spotted any weird roundabout in Valencia? Valencia’s roundabouts showcase art from the stunning to the bizarre, blending civic pride with quirky charm.
by
106 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 106 Insider Tips