One of the unique attractions in Valencia is The Water Court, also known as El Pati dels Tarongers. This historic landmark was built between 1548 and 1552 by King Philip II, and it remains one of the most impressive examples of Renaissance architecture in Europe today.
The Water Court is located close to Plaza de la Reina, and it’s surrounded by lush gardens filled with orange trees – hence its name ‘Pati dels Tarongers’. The courtyard itself consists of two parts: an upper level where visitors can admire the stunning views, and a lower level where they can explore the intricately designed fountains, pools, and sculptures.
At first glance, visitors will be captivated by the beauty of this place; however, there’s more than meets the eye here. The Water Court was originally built as part of an irrigation system for Valencia – something which had been desperately needed since Roman times due to frequent droughts experienced in this region. This ingenious idea allowed water from nearby rivers to be collected into ponds before being distributed throughout Valencia via aqueducts that were connected together like a jigsaw puzzle.
Today, The Water Court serves as both an important reminder of Valencian history and a popular tourist attraction for those visiting this vibrant city. Visitors can take guided tours around the courtyard or simply enjoy some peaceful moments admiring its beauty while soaking up all its historical significance at their own pace. There are even events held here during summer months such as concerts and open-air theatre performances which make for great evenings out.
