Jardín del Turia

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The park's creation was the result of a massive public movement under the slogan 'volem el llit del riu verd' (we want the riverbed green) to prevent it from becoming a highway.

2. 2

   The Gulliver Park section features a massive 70-meter-long sculpture of Gulliver from Swift's novel, designed as a playground with slides integrated into the giant's clothing and hair.

3. 3

   Because the park is situated below street level, it contains 18 historical bridges that now span across greenery rather than water.

4. 4

   The Palau de la Música, a renowned concert hall, is built directly into the park's landscaped riverbed sections.

5. 5

   The project for the park was divided into different segments, each designed by various architects, leading to a mix of styles including Japanese-inspired gardens and formal rose beds.

6. 6

   The park acts as a wind corridor for the city, helping to regulate local microclimates and reduce the urban heat island effect.

Overview

Jardín del Turia is a 9-kilometer-long urban park constructed in the former riverbed of the Turia River, which was diverted following a catastrophic flood in 1957. The park functions as a continuous green corridor bisecting Valencia, connecting the Parc de Capçalera in the west to the City of Arts and Sciences in the east. It occupies approximately 110 hectares of land reclaimed from the river, featuring diverse botanical sections, sports facilities, and cultural venues. The landscape design incorporates remnants of historical stone bridges, such as the 15th-century Puente de la Trinidad and the 16th-century Puente del Real. The park's terrain is sunken relative to the city streets, providing a natural buffer against urban noise. It serves as the primary recreational axis for the city, hosting bicycle paths, jogging tracks, and specialized garden zones.

Insider tips

• Rent a bicycle to traverse the full length of the park, as walking the entire nine kilometers is time-intensive.

• Bring a refillable water bottle, as the park features numerous public fountains.

• Explore the side sections away from the main path to find quieter, shaded botanical gardens.