Casa de la Ciutat, Gothic municipal building in Valencia, Spain
Casa de la Ciutat is a Gothic city hall in Valencia that once contained multiple chambers with ribbed vaulted ceilings, including the Council Hall and the Hall of Inkstand. The interior spaces featured architectural details that reflected the importance of municipal governance.
The building was constructed in 1302 after King James I of Aragon granted permission, and it was expanded in 1311 under King James II. A major fire in 1423 damaged the main council chamber and prompted significant reconstruction.
The building's name reflects its role as the seat of city administration, a purpose that shaped how Valencians understood their municipal identity. This function made it a place where important decisions about the city were made and discussed.
The original structure was demolished between 1854 and 1860, so visitors cannot see the interior spaces that once existed. The administrative functions were moved to a different building, meaning this location is not currently accessible as a regular visitor destination.
After the 1423 fire, builders created a new chamber decorated with heavenly motifs that inspired its later name referencing angels. About a century later, the walls of the Secret Council room were painted with religious artwork by a prominent local artist depicting biblical scenes.
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