Valencia's biggest attraction is without a doubt the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, a sprawling architectural and entertainment-based complex devoted to the dissemination of science and culture. It's located towards the end of the old riverbed of the Turia River, which was diverted decades ago after the city suffered a massive flood in 1957.
The hulking, ultra-modern structures comprising the "city" were designed by Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava, an international superstar as far as architecture goes. The major components - an opera house, a science museum, an IMAX theater, a gardened walk and an aquarium - rise dramatically out of crystalline pools and are surrounded by open areas perfect for relaxing and strolling.
Read on for more information about each of the fascinating parts of the City of Arts and Sciences, or sign up for our school activity and discover it all for yourself!
Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía
This spectacular edifice is dedicated to the performing arts, ranging from intimate concerts to large-scale opera productions. Inside you'll find four different performing arts halls, each boasting top-notch technological equipment necessary for the diverse range of performances.
Hemisfèric
The Hemisfèric, which boasts the unique shape of an eye, is located next to the Palau de les Arts and boasts IMAX cinema, laser shows and planetarium displays on his humongous concave screen.
Museo de las Ciencias Príncipe Felipe
The massive structure of the City of Arts and Sciences' innovate and interactive science museum fittingly looks somewhat like a skeleton of sorts. The museum combines jaw-dropping architecture with the latest technology to provide visitors of all ages with interactive exhibits, experiments, incredible graphics and all sorts of temporary exhibitions and events.
Umbracle
The Umbracle, the aesthetically pleasing solution to covering the complex's massive underground carpark, is a gardened walkway filled with blossoming flowers, plants and trees typical of the Valencian region. Take a leisurely stroll or kick back on the long benches and enjoy the aroma.
Oceanogràfic
The Oceanogràfic complex is Europe's largest aquarium and boasts hundreds of marine species dispersed throughout its eight buildings and organized by region (Arctic, Mediterranean, Atlantic, etc.). Throughout its massive tanks, spaces and even underwater tunnels, you can discover energetic dolphins and graceful belugas, vibrant tropical fish and dainty seahorses, translucent jellyfish and waddling penguins, menacing-looking sharks and pastel-colored corals