| The
Lonja de la Seda (English: Silk Exchange) in Valencia, or simply La Lonja
to the locals (also La Llotja on street signs), is one of the principal
tourist attractions in the city and a World Heritage Site. Currently the
seat of the Cultural Academy of Valencia, the building frequently hosts
exhibitions. La Lonja was founded in 1469 as a market for oil. The design
was derived from a similar structure in Palma de Mallorca; the architects
were Pedro Compte, Juan Yvarra, and Johan Corbera. It was not until 1498
that the crenellated tower and the Gothic trading hall were completed.
Other construction and decoration works lumbered on until 1533. During
subsequent centuries, La Lonja functioned as a silk exchange. The honesty
of its traders is honored by the inscription that runs around the main
contract hall. La Lonja adjoins a similarly ornate late Gothic building,
called the Consulado. |
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