Calatrava City of Arts and Sciences is an incredible complex of architecture, art, science, and technology located in Valencia, Spain. It was designed by renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava and opened in 1998. The City of Arts and Sciences is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Spain and is a must-see for anyone visiting Valencia.
History
The City of Arts and Sciences was originally conceived as a way to revitalize Valencia’s riverbed. The project was approved in July 1989 and construction began in July 1996. The complex was completed in 1998 and opened to the public on October 16th of that year. Since then, it has become one of the most visited attractions in Spain, attracting over 6 million visitors annually.
Architecture
The City of Arts and Sciences is composed of six buildings, each designed by Santiago Calatrava. The buildings are:
- L’Hemisferic
- El Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe
- L’Umbracle
- L’Oceanogràfic
- El Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia
- El Pont de l’Assut de l’Or
The architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences is stunning. Calatrava’s designs are innovative and awe-inspiring, combining modern and classical elements. The buildings are constructed from white concrete and glass, with the curved forms of the roofs and walls providing a sense of motion and energy.
Attractions
L’Hemisferic
L’Hemisferic is a planetarium and IMAX cinema. It is shaped like a giant eye, with a large dome that houses the IMAX screen. The building also contains a science museum, which features interactive exhibits on topics such as astronomy, physics, and biology.
El Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe
El Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe is an interactive science museum. It features interactive exhibits on topics such as physics, biology, and chemistry. The museum also has a planetarium, which is used for educational shows and films.
L’Umbracle
L’Umbracle is an open-air structure designed by Calatrava. It is composed of a series of walkways, gardens, and fountains. The building is designed to provide a place of respite and relaxation in the midst of the City of Arts and Sciences.
L’Oceanogràfic
L’Oceanogràfic is an oceanarium located in the City of Arts and Sciences. It is home to a variety of marine life, including dolphins, sharks, and sea turtles. The oceanarium also features interactive exhibits, educational programs, and underwater shows.
El Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia
El Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia is an opera house and performing arts center. It is home to the National Orchestra of Spain and features performances by renowned artists from around the world. The building also contains a museum, which showcases works of art from the 16th to the 21st centuries.
El Pont de l’Assut de l’Or
El Pont de l’Assut de l’Or is a pedestrian bridge that connects the City of Arts and Sciences with the old city of Valencia. The bridge is suspended over the Turia River and is composed of two curved arches. It is one of the most iconic structures in the City of Arts and Sciences and provides stunning views of the city.
The City of Arts and Sciences is an incredible complex of architecture, art, science, and technology. It is a must-see for anyone visiting Valencia and is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Spain.
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