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Historical Significance
The Quart Towers (Torres de Quart) are one of the two surviving gates of Valencia’s late-medieval city wall, alongside the Serranos Towers (Torres de Serranos). Begun in 1441 under Alfonso V the Magnanimous, they were designed by Francesc Baldomar on the model of the triumphal arch of Castel Nuovo in Naples and completed by Pere Compte and Pere Bonfill later in the 15th century. Quart was the city’s main entrance from the Kingdom of Castile, and the whole building is set at an angle to the wall so that the gate follows the line of the old road to Quart de Poblet.
The towers saw their hardest fighting on 28 June 1808, when Marshal Moncey’s French troops attacked Valencia during the Peninsular War (Spanish War of Independence, 1808–1814) and the city held. In 1813 the gate became a military prison, which is why it survived when the rest of the wall was demolished in 1865.
The pockmarks left by French cannonballs and musket fire were deliberately kept during later restorations, and they are still clearly visible on the outer face today.
Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting Valencia
Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting Valencia
Quart Towers Details
- Location: El Carmen, Valencia
- Region: Valencia City
- Address: Carrer de la Muralla, 46001 Valencia, Spain
- How to arrive: Buses 10, 60, 64, 73, 81, 92, C1, C2
- Created: 15th century (begun 1441)
- Architectural Style: Medieval with Gothic and Renaissance influences
- Entrance: Main Gate
- Entrance fee: € 2 general entry; € 1 for groups, students, pensioners, large families, children from 7 years old. Free on Sundays and holidays.
- Tickets: Quart Towers Tickets
- Opening hours: Mon–Sat 10:00–19:00; Sun and public holidays 10:00–14:00; last entry 30 minutes before closing. Closed 1 and 6 January, 1 May and 25 December.
Architectural Features
The Quart Towers are constructed using natural limestone sourced from nearby quarries, with traditional lime mortar binding the stones together—an enduring technique of medieval masonry. The robust construction not only ensured their longevity through centuries of wear and siege warfare but also emphasizes the historical authenticity of their design influenced by Gothic and Renaissance styles.
Rising to an impressive height of 34 m / 112 ft, the towers significantly surpass the stature of the surrounding modern buildings. This commanding elevation not only provided expansive views of the city and its environs during their military use but now creates a striking visual contrast in today’s urban landscape, serving as a proud reminder of Valencia’s architectural heritage.
Surprisingly, the medieval Torres de Quart dwarfs surrounding buildings. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting Valencia.
The whole Old Town (Ciutat Vella) is visible from Torres de Quart. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting Valencia.
Visitor Information
When planning your visit, keep in mind that the towers feature narrow, steep staircases leading to breathtaking panoramic views from high above the city, so wear comfortable shoes and be cautious if you’re prone to dizziness. It’s best to visit on a weekday morning when it’s less crowded, although free entry is offered on Sundays (with shorter hours). Check the weather beforehand, as the towers may be closed during heavy rain or strong winds. The site is centrally located and easily accessible by foot or public transport, making it a convenient stop during your exploration of Valencia’s historic center. A 10-minute walk east brings you to Valencia Cathedral and the Holy Grail chapel (Catedral de Valencia), the heart of the medieval city these walls protected.
All photos by Alis Monte. If you want to collaborate, contact me on hi@connectingvalencia.com. Photo by Alis Monte [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Connecting Valencia.