In the heart of Valencia’s Old Town, near the central market, stands the impressive UNESCO site the Lonja de la Seda – also known as the Silk Exchange. Alongside its important role in Valencia’s trading history, predominately the silk industry, this emblematic building treats visitors to one of Europe’s finest examples of Gothic civil architecture.

Built between 1483 and 1548, the complex is divided into three different sections and an orange garden known as the Patio de los Naranjos. The first area is the Sala de Contratación (Trading Hall). Marvel at the arched windows, vaulted ceilings, and the 24 twisted columns that make it feel like you’re walking in a palm tree forest. Look out for Gothic figures engraved in the stone too – there’s everything from creatures to humans.

After you walk through the peaceful gardens, step inside the Consolat del Mar – Consulate of the Sea – to admire the Golden Chamber. La Lonja was built when Valencia was at its economic and cultural peak, and if you tilt your heads up, a fine example of this is the spectacular golden-gilded ceiling. The Torreón (Great Tower) is where visitors can visit the chapel, and the spiral staircase – also an optical illusion – leads to upper floors which were used as a prison for merchants who failed to pay their debts.