Valencia is a place for the art lovers and romantics, not only because of the beautiful parks and markets, but Valencia has a rich history of art and takes pride in their exhibitions and museums. Many of these are low cost or even free, so if you are thinking of having a cultural day, why not visit some of these amazing places and experience the art culture Valencia has to offer.
Possibly the most famous: The Museum of the Fine Arts (Museu de Belles Arts), is the perfect place to go, as it is situated right next to the royal gardens (Jardines de Viveros), so you can enjoy both a day out exploring the gardens and all it’s beauty and then head to the museum for even more interest. Currently the museum is exhibiting the works of Goya and Sorolla, who are both renowned painters with a rich and interesting history in their work. Discover it for yourself and uncover the labyrinth of narratives that lie within the walls of the Museu de Belles Artes.
Another very famous museum in Valencia: Instituto Valenciano de Arte Moderno or simply IVAM, is located only 5 minutes away from our store Flight Mode Valencia (where you can rent bikes, the best way to visit the city) – a perfect stop off before starting your day! IVAM is renowned for being the first museum of modern art in Spain and is one of the few that has paid special attention to the historical European avant-garde.
Its rooms permanently exhibit a range of studies on the work of two artists: Julio González (1876 – 1942) and Ignacio Pinazo (1849 – 1916). Temporary exhibitions are always being held of national and international artists, and usually last several months. So always check ahead and see what’s on because you never know what wonder you will find in the walls of IVAM.
A slightly different option, for those looking to immerse themselves in the romanticism and curiosity of an artist’s house, look no further than the home of Benlliure (casa museo Benlliure). Only a 10 minute walk from our store and then, passing by torres de serranos, another 10 minutes to the Fine Art Museum, this would be a perfect place to go if you are planning on seeing many in one day.
The building, built between 1880 and 1883, is a spectacular example of housing for the high bourgeoisie of the time; the three story house boasts a beautiful garden and painting pavilion. There is a series of room where you can enjoy authentic furniture and interior from the 19th century as well as interesting works by renowned artists of the time such as Sorolla, Muñoz Degraín, Rusinyol, Luna Novice, Nagy ect. For only €2, you can experience the marvel that is Benlliure’s house and transport to a time far before ours.
Of course this list would not be complete without mentioning the stunning building that is Queen Sofia Palace of the Arts (Palacio de las Artes Reina Sofía), located in the heart of the city of the arts and sciences. The innovative architecture of this 40.000 square metre building, 75 metres high, accommodates four venues open for opera, music, ballet and theatre.
A fusion for all the arts makes this venue one of the top attractions in Valencia, so you do not want to go without visiting this amazing structure. Also near to lots of other visiting points in Valencia such as the Oceanographic and the science museum, this is the perfect place to experience as much as possible if you are staying for a short time in the city.
Last but not least on the list, has to be MUVIM (Museo Valenciano de la Ilustración y la Modernidad), a place that is never short on temporary exhibitions and activities open to the general public. Again, only a 13 minute walk from our store, this would be the perfect museum to visit after seeing IVAM, which is one the way.
It is a space that reflects on the problems and features of our current society through a range of mixed-media exhibitions, talks and audiovisual events. It also has a library and study centre that offers educational workshops and space to work. Its bar and cafeteria have a terrace that opens out onto a beautiful garden with trees, rose bushes and sculptures.
It may interest you: Travel idea: Cultural
Some other noticeable mentions include:
- The Ceramics Museum (Palacio del Marques de Dos Aguas): for those interested in 18th century Rococo (late baroque) architecture and interior, including traditional ceramics.
- Eposició del Ninot and Museu Faller – for those interested in the Fallas festival and the ninot sculptures.
- CCCC (Centro del Carmen de Cultura Contemporánea): for those interested in modern mixed-media exhibitions in a former 13th-century convent with a bell tower and a Gothic cloister.
- Bombas Gens: is an art center located in an old factory, built between 1930 and 1935 according to the canons of the Art Deco style
