Street map of Valencia highlighting Carrer del Bosseria

Carrer De La Bosseria

Carrer de la Bosseria: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites in Valencia, Spain

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Located in the heart of Valencia’s Ciutat Vella (Old Town), Carrer de la Bosseria is a vibrant testament to the city’s medieval history, artisan traditions, and ongoing cultural vitality. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the street’s historical significance, practical visitor information, nearby attractions, and tips for making the most of your visit.

Historic street view of Carrer de la Bosseria (Tros Alt) in Valencia with the bell tower of Sant Joan del Mercat church in the background, 1870

Historical Overview

Medieval Origins and Etymology

Carrer de la Bosseria traces its origins to the late 14th century, when the area was developed over the filled-in Islamic city moat (vall vell). The street’s name derives from the guilds of leatherworkers—“bossers” or “bolseros”—specializing in bags, purses, and gloves. These guilds played a pivotal role in Valencia’s medieval economy and social structure, with documented ordinances formalizing their trades as early as 1741 (Love Valencia; Levante-EMV; ca.wikipedia.org).

Guild System and Urban Development

Valencia’s medieval cityscape was shaped by specialized guilds, and Carrer de la Bosseria became a hub for the bag-makers, cord-makers, and glove-makers. The guilds regulated trade quality, supported artisans, and fostered a thriving commercial environment that remains reflected in the street’s atmosphere today (Love Valencia).

Architectural and Urban Evolution

Stretching between Plaça del Tossal and Plaça del Mercat, Carrer de la Bosseria exhibits a distinctive medieval layout with narrow lanes and traditional facades. While some buildings have been altered over time, the street’s character preserves Valencia’s layered architectural heritage (ca.wikipedia.org).

Socioeconomic Significance

Throughout the centuries, Carrer de la Bosseria has adapted to changes in trade, fashion, and urban development while maintaining its importance as a commercial and cultural artery. The area is noted for its diversity and ongoing artisan activity (Love Valencia).

Visiting Carrer de la Bosseria

Visiting Hours

Carrer de la Bosseria is a public thoroughfare, open 24 hours a day. For the best experience, visit during daylight hours—especially mornings and afternoons—when shops, workshops, and markets are bustling.

Tickets and Entry

No ticket is required to walk along Carrer de la Bosseria. However, some nearby attractions such as La Lonja de la Seda and Mercado Central may have their own admission fees and specific opening hours (Visit Valencia).

Accessibility

Due to its medieval origins, the street is narrow and features cobblestone pavements, which may challenge visitors with mobility impairments. Many adjacent plazas and some businesses offer better accessibility, but planning ahead is advisable.

Guided Tours and Special Events

Guided walking tours focusing on Valencia’s medieval heritage, artisan crafts, and urban history often include Carrer de la Bosseria. The street is also a focal point during major cultural events such as Las Fallas, when it comes alive with sculptures, fireworks, and traditional festivities (Spain.info).

Highlights and Nearby Attractions

Historical Landmarks

Medieval Graffiti: Between Nos. 33 and 37, visitors can find rare medieval graffiti of a merchant ship, etched into the wall of the former Convent de la Puritat, reflecting Valencia’s maritime heritage (Actualidad Valencia).
Convent de la Puritat (Remains): While the convent itself no longer stands, remnants survive in the street’s layout and walls (Actualidad Valencia).
Plaça del Tossal: At the western end, this square is a lively hub for nightlife and events (Lletraferit).
Mercado Central: One of Europe’s largest and most beautiful markets, open daily from 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM (Visit Valencia).
La Lonja de la Seda: Opposite the market, this UNESCO-listed Gothic masterpiece is open to visitors with a small fee (Visit Valencia).

Carrer de la Bosseria is renowned for its artisan shops, cafes, bars, and its proximity to the dynamic Barrio del Carmen, known for nightlife and cultural venues (Spain.info; Valencia Secreta).

Artistic and Architectural Features

The street’s architecture harmonizes medieval, Gothic, and later styles, with colorful facades, wrought-iron balconies, and remnants of historic workshops (Spain.info).

Special Events

Las Fallas Festival: Each March, monumental sculptures (fallas) are erected, and Carrer de la Bosseria becomes a center for parades and festivities (Spain.info).
Religious and Civic Processions: The street is part of routes for Corpus Christi and Mare de Déu processions (Lletraferit).

Practical Visitor Information

Getting There: Located in Ciutat Vella, the street is easily accessible by foot from central attractions. Metro stations Xàtiva and Ángel Guimerà are nearby.
Travel Tips: Wear comfortable shoes, visit early to avoid crowds, and respect preservation signage near historical features.
Nearby Amenities: The area offers abundant cafes, tapas bars, and restaurants, including local specialty shops. Be sure to sample Valencian dishes like paella and horchata.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours of Carrer de la Bosseria?
A: The street is open 24/7 as a public thoroughfare. Shops and markets typically open from 7:30 or 10:00 AM to evening hours.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No, visiting the street is free. Some nearby landmarks may charge admission.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, several tour operators include Carrer de la Bosseria on their Valencia history and culture tours (Visit Valencia).

Q: Is the street accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: There are cobblestones and narrow sections; accessibility may be limited in some areas.

Q: What are must-see nearby attractions?
A: Mercado Central, La Lonja de la Seda, Plaça del Tossal, and the Barrio del Carmen.

Summary Table: Notable Sites and Attractions

Site/Attraction	Description	Location/Access
Medieval Ship Graffiti	14th/15th-century merchant ship drawing	Nos. 33–37, Carrer de la Bosseria
Convent de la Puritat (remains)	Historic convent remains	Along Carrer de la Bosseria
Plaça del Tossal	Lively square, festivals and nightlife	Western end of the street
Mercado Central	Food market, free entry, open mornings	Plaça del Mercat
La Lonja de la Seda	UNESCO Gothic Silk Exchange, ticketed	Plaça del Mercat
Barrio del Carmen	Medieval district, nightlife, palaces	Surrounding area
Torres de Quart/Serranos	Medieval gates, panoramic views	Short walk north

Final Recommendations

To truly appreciate Carrer de la Bosseria, explore during the day to experience the artisan shops and vibrant market activity, or in the evening for dining and nightlife. Consider joining a guided tour to learn about the street’s medieval and guild heritage. For festival experiences, plan your visit around Las Fallas or other major events. Download the Audiala app for personalized itineraries, interactive maps, and updates on local happenings.

Carrer de la Bosseria is more than a historic street—it is a living narrative of Valencia’s evolution, craftsmanship, and community spirit.