## Plaza de la Virgen: A Guide to Valencia's Historic Heart

Plaza de la Virgen, also known as Plaça de la Mare de Déu in Valencian, is one of Valencia's most important and beautiful squares. Its history stretches back to Roman times when it served as the city's forum. Today, it remains a central gathering place and a must-see destination for visitors.

Three of Valencia's most emblematic buildings border the plaza: the Valencia Cathedral, the Basilica of the Virgin of the Forsaken (Basílica de la Virgen de los Desamparados), and the Palau de la Generalitat, home to the regional government. The square is pedestrianized, offering a welcome respite from the city's bustle.

A key feature of the Plaza de la Virgen is the Turia Fountain. This fountain is a bronze allegorical representation of the Turia River, which once flowed through Valencia. The fountain depicts a central male figure representing the river, surrounded by eight nude female figures symbolizing the eight main irrigation canals that water the surrounding agricultural lands. The Water Tribunal, the oldest surviving democratic institution in Europe, meets in the square every Thursday at noon to resolve disputes related to the irrigation canals.

Throughout the year, Plaza de la Virgen hosts a variety of events, most notably during the Las Fallas festival in March. During Las Fallas, a large statue of the Virgin Mary is erected in the plaza, and Falleras clad in traditional dresses offer flowers to the Virgin, creating a stunning floral display. The Plaza is also central to the Corpus Christi procession.