Drassanes del Grau, Gothic shipyard building in Poblats Marítims, Spain
Drassanes del Grau is a Gothic shipyard building in Poblats Marítims, Spain, featuring five parallel rectangular halls built side by side. Brick diaphragm arches support each hall, creating a continuous row of vaulted spaces that once bustled with maritime activity.
Valencia's city government founded this shipyard in 1338 to store naval equipment and build vessels for trade routes. The facility expanded over centuries as the city became one of the Mediterranean's main port centers.
The building reflects Valencia's importance as a port city and shows how deeply connected the town was to the Mediterranean trade world. Visitors today can sense this maritime past when walking through the halls and imagining the busy trade activities that once filled these spaces.
The building sits on Plaza Juan Antonio Benlliure and now hosts art exhibitions inside its restored Gothic halls. Wear comfortable shoes since you will be walking across uneven stone floors while exploring the large interior spaces.
The rear section of the building has remained almost untouched because it lacked access doors for many centuries and the facade saw minimal changes. These original walls still show the marks of how shipbuilders first designed this space without later alterations.
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