The Silk Road: historic, architectural and artistic legacy

The Silk Road is a great ​​​​​​​cultural journey into the past that will immerse you in the history of the Region of Valencia’s production and trade of silk in the 15th and 18th centuries. Starting in the faraway land of China, trade routes were created that reached Europe, changing our economy centuries ago. València played an important role in the present-day revival of the Silk Road.  

The Silk Road is being rediscovered through guided tours and experiences in places that played a key part in its history. So sign yourself up to learn something new and have a great time. 

The impressive Silk Museum in the Velluters district of València is a good place to start. In the 18th century, thousands of looms used to weave the precious silk fabric here. The museum is housed in a beautiful Baroque building that will get you reaching for your camera. After your visit, we’d recommend making your way to the extraordinary Silk Exchange, which was the historic hub of the silk trade. 

The Silk Exchange is an example of beautiful Valencian Civil Gothic architecture. Here, among the columns of the hall, sales and purchases of silk were made. Another striking building that was also, in its day, connected to the silk trade is what is now the National Ceramics Museum, housed in El Marqués de Dos Aguas Palace. 

Next on your list is another palace, this one located in El Carmen district. Malferit Palace has a whole room dedicated to the Silk Road inside its Tin Soldier Museum. 

Beyond these buildings and museum collections in València, the Silk Road will take you to Vinalesa and the 18th century Silk Factory. The museum is located in the heart of the Valencian huerta, the local agricultural land, which paints a pretty picture. Just a stone’s throw away, Moncada also has its very own Silk Museum that you can take a nose around. 

The official Silk Road website offers all sorts of experiences, workshops and activities that you and the family can enjoy. From workshops to painting delicate fabrics, signing yourself up to entertaining tours and even discovering the secrets of silkworm breeding, there’s plenty to do. 

Other experiences include foodie tours and fun activities that will make sure you have a great time with your friends and family. You can also venture to other parts of the Region of Valencia like Requena, located in inland province of Valencia, where there is a museum dedicated to the history of silk in the town, which is currently well-known for its wines and cavas. 

Another option is to head to Ontinyent’s Textile Museum, where you can discover and see the tools that were used to make other less exclusive fabrics as well as a section focusing on the local silk industry. 

Allow the Silk Road to take you to places, museums and buildings of extraordinary beauty and enjoy learning about a tradition with a long history in our Region that can still be seen in the colourful and surprising beauty of our traditional clothing. Come and explore the Silk Road.