Carrer De Serrans

Visiting Carrer De Serrans, Valencia: Comprehensive Guide to Serranos Towers, Tickets, Hours, and Attractions

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: Carrer De Serrans and the Serranos Towers

At the northeast edge of Valencia’s historic Old Town, Carrer De Serrans leads to one of the city’s most striking monuments: the Serranos Towers (Torres de Serranos). Built between 1392 and 1398 during Valencia’s Golden Age, these imposing Gothic towers were once the main northern gateway, part of the city’s Christian Wall (Muralla Cristiana), and are emblematic of Valencia’s medieval heritage (Spain.info; Wikipedia). Today, the towers and their surrounding area offer a vivid journey through history, architecture, and Valencian culture.

Carrer De Serrans remains a vibrant artery, hosting events such as the annual “Crida,” the opening ceremony of the Fallas festival (Valencia Secreta; Servicios Valencia). The street’s blend of medieval charm and lively community activity makes it a must-see for visitors. This guide will navigate you through the Serranos Towers’ history, architecture, visitor logistics, special events, and nearby attractions to ensure a rewarding visit.

Carrer dels Serrans street view in Valencia with historic buildings and blue sky

Introduction
Medieval Origins and Construction
Defensive and Ceremonial Roles
Use as a Prison and During the Spanish Civil War
Restoration and Architectural Features
Visitor Experience: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Cultural Significance and Events
Getting There and Nearby Attractions
Tips for Visitors
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
Sources and Further Reading

Medieval Origins and Construction

The Serranos Towers were constructed between 1392 and 1398 under master stonemason Pere Balaguer, during an era of great prosperity in Valencia (Spain.info). Their design, inspired by Gothic fortifications in Catalonia and Aragon, features two massive polygonal towers joined by a gallery and a central semicircular arch. The limestone façade and pentagonal plan are typical of late 14th-century Gothic military architecture, making them the largest Gothic city gateway in Europe (Valencia City Guide).

Defensive and Ceremonial Roles

Originally, the towers served as the northern entrance to Valencia, defending against potential invaders from the Els Serrans region. Their thick walls, elevated position, and defensive features made them a formidable barrier. Yet, they also had ceremonial functions: the grand staircase and imposing architecture were designed to impress during royal entries and city celebrations, reflecting the city’s wealth and civic pride (Valencia City Guide).

Later Uses: Prison and Spanish Civil War

After a fire in 1586 destroyed Valencia’s main prison, the Serranos Towers became a detention center for nobles and knights until 1887 (History Hit). During the Spanish Civil War (1936–1939), the towers protected invaluable artwork from Madrid’s Prado Museum, their interiors reinforced to withstand bombing (History Hit).

Restoration and Architectural Features

Restoration began in the late 19th century, preserving the towers’ striking Gothic details (Holidify). Today, visitors can climb stone staircases to the terraces for panoramic views of the Old Town and Turia Gardens. The towers’ parapets, machicolations, and battlements highlight their blend of defensive might and decorative grandeur (Spain.info).

Visitor Experience: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours:

Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sundays and public holidays: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Closed Mondays (Northleg)

Admission:

General entry: €2
Free on Sundays and public holidays
Discounts for students, seniors, and Valencia Tourist Card holders (Spanish Glory)
Tickets: On-site or online pre-booking recommended, especially during busy periods

Accessibility:

The main entrance and ground level are accessible, but the upper terraces require ascending stone staircases. There are no elevators, so access is limited for those with reduced mobility.

Visitor Tips:

Wear comfortable shoes for climbing and walking on cobblestones
Bring water in warmer months
Early morning or late afternoon visits offer cooler temperatures and softer light for photos
The towers are busiest during festivals and weekends

Cultural Significance and Special Events

The Serranos Towers are central to Valencia’s cultural identity, especially during the annual Fallas festival. The “Crida” opening ceremony takes place here each February, featuring speeches, music, and fireworks (Valencia Secreta). Throughout the year, the towers host exhibitions, concerts, and historical reenactments, reinforcing their role as a community hub (Servicios Valencia).

Getting There and Nearby Attractions

Location:
Carrer de Serrans meets Plaza de los Fueros at the Old Town’s northern edge, adjacent to Turia Gardens (Lonely Planet; Northleg).

Transport:

On foot: A short walk from Plaza de la Virgen, Central Market, or the Cathedral
By bike: Valenbisi stations nearby
Public transport: Served by bus and metro routes; taxis and e-scooters also available

Nearby Sites:

Turia Gardens: Valencia’s vast urban park
Valencia Cathedral: Home of the Holy Grail relic
Central Market: Bustling with local food and crafts
Silk Exchange (La Lonja): UNESCO-listed Gothic marvel
Barrio del Carmen: The city’s most historic and atmospheric neighborhood

Tips for Visitors

Best time to visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather; early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better photos
Festivals: Las Fallas in March draws huge crowds—book in advance
Guided tours: Available in multiple languages, offering in-depth insights (Tourist Platform)
Eating nearby: Cafés, tapas bars, and restaurants abound in Barrio del Carmen and around Central Market
Amenities: Restrooms, benches, and shaded areas are located nearby, especially in Turia Gardens

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Serranos Towers opening hours?
A: Tuesday–Saturday 10:00–19:00, Sundays and holidays 10:00–15:00, closed Mondays.

Q: How much does entry cost?
A: €2 general admission; free on Sundays/public holidays. Discounts available.

Q: Are the towers accessible to wheelchair users?
A: The ground floor is accessible, but upper levels require stairs.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, they can be booked in advance and are highly recommended.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Yes, photography is encouraged, especially from the terraces.

Q: What else is nearby?
A: Turia Gardens, Valencia Cathedral, Central Market, La Lonja, and the vibrant Barrio del Carmen.

Conclusion

Carrer De Serrans and the Serranos Towers encapsulate the essence of Valencia: a city where medieval history, architectural grandeur, and living culture merge. Whether you’re drawn by panoramic city views, vibrant festivals, or the stories embedded in ancient stones, this site is an unmissable part of any Valencia itinerary. For up-to-date information, events, and more travel inspiration, download the Audiala app and connect with Valencia’s rich heritage.