The Lonja is not just a recognizable landmark of the city but also one of the most well-known examples of civic gothic architecture in all of Europe. In July 1931, it was designated as a National Historic and Artistic Monument, and in December 1996, it was added to the list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.
The interior of the structure resounds with Mediterranean Gothic, a style that is unique to the area and can be found nowhere else. The dedication of the architects to their art is reflected in the structure through the use of extended and evocative lines, elaborate shapes and ornamentation, allegorical carvings, and bas-reliefs.
There are three sections that can be easily distinguished from one another, in addition to a garden or 'orange patio.' These sections are Columnario, Taula de Canvis, and the chapel tower.
The Columnario, also known as the Sala de Contratación, has a ceiling that is dome-shaped and is supported by eight columns. The ceiling is divided into three longitudinal and five transversal naves. The columns have a unique sense of grandeur and proportion because of the building's height, which is 17.40 meters.
The room served as the location of the Taula de Canvis, which was established in 1407 by the municipal council. The Taula de Canvis gained a great deal of prestige for its financial soundness and banking activities. The archives of the Valencia Municipality hold both the Taula, also known as the Table, which was used for the transactions and the first Bill of Exchange that was created in Spain.
The tower is the third component of the building, and there is a chapel devoted to the Immaculate Conception located on the ground level of the building. Those who defaulted on their payments were locked up on the top two floors of the building, which were designated as the prison.
Carrer de la Llotja, 2, 46001 València, Spain