Sant Nicolau de Bari i Sant Pere Màrtir is a Valencian Gothic-style Catholic parish church located in the historic center of Valencia, Spain. It's often referred to as Valencia's "Sistine Chapel" due to its intricate Baroque frescoes.
Website Ratings:
Google: 4.7/5
TripAdvisor: 4.5/5
10 Must-Do Activities:
1. City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias)
This futuristic complex designed by Santiago Calatrava is one of Valencia's most iconic landmarks. It houses an IMAX theater, an interactive science museum, and Europe’s largest aquarium, the Oceanogràfic.
2. Valencia Cathedral and El Miguelete
Visit the Valencia Cathedral, a stunning mix of Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque styles, where the Holy Grail is purportedly housed. Climb the Miguelete Tower for panoramic views of the city.
3. Central Market (Mercado Central)
One of Europe’s largest markets, Mercado Central is a bustling hub where locals shop for fresh produce, seafood, and meats. Admire the beautiful modernist architecture while enjoying some local delicacies.
4. Turia Gardens (Jardín del Turia)
Once a river, now a park, the Turia Gardens stretch for 9 kilometers, offering a lush green escape in the heart of the city. Walk, bike, or relax by the fountains and sculptures.
5. La Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange)
A UNESCO World Heritage site, La Lonja de la Seda is a stunning Gothic building that once served as a hub for Valencia's silk trade. The Hall of Columns is particularly impressive.
6. Barrio del Carmen
Explore the narrow, winding streets of Barrio del Carmen, one of Valencia’s oldest neighborhoods. It’s home to medieval architecture, vibrant street art, and a plethora of bars and restaurants.
7. Plaza de la Virgen and Plaza de la Reina
Two of Valencia's most famous squares, Plaza de la Virgen and Plaza de la Reina, are surrounded by historic buildings, including the Basilica of the Virgin of the Forsaken and the Cathedral. These squares are perfect for people-watching and enjoying Valencian culture.
8. The Albufera Natural Park
A short drive from the city, Albufera is a natural park with a large freshwater lagoon. Take a boat ride at sunset, and don’t miss the chance to try paella, which originated in this region.
9. Las Fallas Museum (Museo Fallero)
Valencia is famous for its Fallas Festival, a UNESCO-recognized celebration held every March. Visit the Museo Fallero to see some of the best "ninots" (giant puppets) saved from past festivals.
10. Malvarrosa Beach
Valencia boasts beautiful beaches, and Malvarrosa is the most popular. Relax by the Mediterranean Sea, enjoy some fresh seafood, or walk along the promenade for a perfect day by the water.
Official Website: Iglesia San Nicolás Valencia - Monumento histórico y turístico - Capilla Sixtina (sannicolasvalencia.com)
"This image is for illustrative purposes only and may not accurately represent the actual location."
Main Positive Reviews:
Visitors frequently praise the beautiful and detailed frescoes, comparing them to the Sistine Chapel.
Many appreciate the rich history and intricate Gothic architecture.
The recent restoration has been highly commended, bringing the church’s artwork back to its former glory.
Patrons note the serene and spiritual ambiance of the church.
Guided tours are well-received, providing in-depth knowledge about the church’s history and art.
Main Negative Reviews:
Some visitors find the church too crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.
A few reviewers think the entrance fee is a bit steep compared to other local attractions.
There are complaints about limited accessibility for people with mobility issues.
A few negative remarks highlight the commercialization of the site, detracting from its spiritual essence.
Some visitors mentioned the staff did not allow us to enter for prayer. The staff treated them contemptuously and were not very educated.
The staff did not explain the arrival times to them and suddenly refused them entry.
One visitor recommend to buy tickets online because the morning queue is very long.
Besides the decoration of the dome, there is nothing else to see.
Even in 40-degree midsummer, they request that you cover your shoulders when visiting, which seems a bit inappropriate.
You cannot enter wearing dresses or tank tops (for girls - ladies); they will give you a kind of scarf to be able to enter.
Very beautiful but a bit tacky.
Overall Analysis
Cost: Entrance Fee: Approximately €11.00 per person
Sant Nicolau de Bari i Sant Pere Màrtir offers a captivating experience for those interested in Gothic architecture and Baroque art. Despite minor drawbacks such as the entrance fee, crowding, and dress code, the church’s artistic and historical value make it a highly recommended attraction in Valencia.
Is it Worth Visiting:
Sant Nicolau de Bari i Sant Pere Màrtir is highly recommended for its stunning Baroque frescoes and rich historical background. The church’s recent restoration has significantly enhanced its visual appeal, making it a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts. However, the entrance fee, occasional overcrowding, and stringent dress code might be deterrents for some visitors. Overall, with an average rating of 4.6/5, it is considered well worth a visit.
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