The Lonja de la Seda, or Silk Exchange is a civil building in Valencia. It comprises three sections that were constructed between 1482 and 1548. It was used as an oil trading centre as well as for the silk trading it has been named for.
At an hour and a half from Javea, the city of Valencia makes for a great day trip with lots of interesting history to discover among its cobbled streets.
There are a number of buildings to admire, but because the silk exchange was constructed over a number of years it displays an interesting range of architectural styles that are great to see from both inside and out.
While this building remains a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture, it also features later Renaissance decoration: Mediterranean art of the 15th century. Due its aesthetic individuality it has earned its place on the UNESCO World Heritage List and is a protected building.
The Lonja has always been a centre for commerce and is now the seat of the Cultural Academy of Valencia, and so serves as the venue for many exhibitions and cultural activities. The building has been designed almost as a shrine to commerce, with every feature symbolic. The outside resembles a medieval castle, with its imposing fortress-like appearance and castellated stone walls. There are an impressive 28 Gothic gargoyles to spot as you wander its exterior.
Head inside and the magnificent Room of Columns has been said to represent paradise with its stone 'trees' and the vaulted ceiling symbolising the roof of heaven. As you explore the inside you will come to the beautiful walled courtyard full of orange trees. It's a relaxing place to sit and rest in the afternoon sun.
