Do you want to know all about the Silk Road in Valencia?

On this tour you’ll have the opportunity to know Valencia as a focal point of Silk Road in the world, in a guided walking visit to the old town where you’ll discover the secrets of silk-making and trading in the city. Then, you’ll savor one of the best paellas in Valencia, in the heart of the historic center..

The Silk Road is a route that was born from commercial exchanges with different products, especially the silk. Its origin was in the Chinese silk business from the 1st century BC. After a hundreds of years, the road was extended by Asia and then arrived to Europe. Sericulture (silkworm rearing) arrived to the Iberian Peninsula in the 9th Century took by the Arabs and Valencia became soon the leading city in Spain in the silk industry.

In 2015, UNESCO included Spain as the 32nd member state of the Silk Road Programme. Valencia has been considered as the Silk City 2016 focal point from UNESCO Mediterranean Programme. On this visit guided across the Valencia Silk Road an oficial guide will reveal you interest details about the process of silk-making and trading in Valencia, the most important industry here between 16th and 18th centuries, and you’ll meet its historical legacy as you visit the places where these activities were developed.

Departing from Plaza del Ayuntamiento, the first stop will be at the Silk Exchange building (Lonja de la Seda), declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO. In the past, was the trade center of the city and the silk-tradding had a central role in its commercial transactions. You will be able to admire the architectural and decorative features of the exterior. Inside, you will visit the Orange Garden Courtyard, the Contract Hall, the Chapel and the Pavilion of the Consulate.

The second stop will be at the College of High Silk Art. It’s the oldest and largest archive in Europe related to the silk industry. It was one of the main drivers of the Valencian economy and the silk manufacturers from its founding in the 15th century. Nowadays, it’s the Silk Museum. You will get to know the Hall of Fame, the Historical Archive and the Chapel, and you’ll find out how the silk looms of the 18th and 19th centuries worked. The tour ends at the Museum’s Silk shop, where you can buy souvenirs and authentic silk garments.

After the guided tour by the Valencia Silk Road you must go to the restaurant for lunch. It’s located in front of the Quart Towers, 10 minutes walking from the Museum. The menu includes starters to share. As main course you’ll be able to choose between Valencian paella, Arroz a Banda, cod, Iberian sirloin or duck. Finally, you’ll delight in a delicious homemade dessert. A beverage by person is included. Savor your lunch with unbeatable views!

An interesting guided visit in Valencia that combines culture, history, traditions and gastronomy… So you cannot miss it!